- Javier Mascherano, Arda Turan, Aleix Vidal, Gerard Delofeu and Rafinha face exit
- Barcelona are looking to free up wage bill and funds to secure transfer targets
- Antoine Griezmann and Philippe Coutinho top wish list for Ernesto Valverde
La Liga leaders Fc Barcelona are planning to let go of some of their fringe players so they would be able to fund the signing of Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho and Antonnie Griezmann.
Reports in Spanish publication Sport suggests that the Barcelona board are considering the wage bill hence have decided to let go of some of the non-first team players.
Players that have been touted to leave include Javier Mascherano, Arda Turan, Aleix Vidal, Gerard Delofeu and Rafinha.
Mascherano to be sold by Barcelona to fund Coutinho and Griezmann deal. Source: SUN
Both Griezmann and Coutinho are long term targets for Ernesto Valverde but both would cost a significant sum to lure from Atletico Madrid and Liverpool respectively.
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With five players earmarked to move on, Barcelona would be trimming the fat off their squad and raising funds but losing a loyal and experienced servant in Mascherano.
The Argentinian has spent seven years with the team, playing a key role in winning a staggering total of 17 trophies, deployed as both a midfielder and centre-back.
The sting of losing such a veteran presence would no doubt be soothed if Barcelona can lure Coutinho and Griezmann.
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Coutinho has been in stunning form for the Reds this season and was close to joining Barca last summer but both Liverpool and Barcelona failed to agree on a fee.
Griezmann who has proven himself in the Spanish La Liiga over the years have struggled to find his feet this season but he is still highly rated by Barcelona.
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Source: Sports.naija.ng
ROSY CREST
Saturday, 30 December 2017