Barcelona’s sporting management are working against the clock to finalise the pending operations that will allow the registration of the remaining players so that Hansi Flick can count on his full squad this season.
Barça director Deco has been completely occupied in trying to close some of the departure operations, with Flick growing unhappy because of the delayed registrations.
Oriol Romeu expected to leave soon
The most imminent exit is that of Oriol Romeu. The 33-year-old midfielder, barring a major surprise, will terminate his contract with the club this week, reports AS.
Romeu’s deal was set to run until 30 June 2026. With his release in hand, the veteran outcast could return to Girona, where he previously played on loan, or choose from other offers he has received from La Liga or Major League Soccer.
Romeu’s departure will open the way for the registration of Gerard Martin, a priority for Hansi Flick, who sees him as Alejandro Balde’s back-up and also as an option at left-sided centre-back.
GIRONA, SPAIN - NOVEMBER 03: Oriol Romeu of Girona FC reacts during the LaLiga match between Girona FC and CD Leganes at Montilivi Stadium on November 03, 2024 in Girona, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Romeu’s contract will be terminated this week. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
The Spanish defender can no longer be registered with the reserve team, as he will turn 23. Flick wants him available as soon as possible, ideally for Saturday’s match against Levante at the Ciutat de Valencia.
The other two pending departures are those of Inaki Pena, who must first renew his contract before leaving, and Hector Fort.
The young full-back has already been told by Deco and the German coach that the best option for him is to join a team where he will have regular playing time.
A loan move is the most likely formula, although a transfer with a buy-back clause cannot be ruled out.
With these two exits, Barcelona would be able to register Wojciech Szczesny and Roony Bardghji. These are currently the most advanced operations, but a larger transfer cannot be excluded in the form of Marc Casado, who has many suitors.