Barcelona Is Looking For A Replacement For Luis Suarez, Who Was Injured Until The End Of The Season
JAKARTA - Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu confirmed that Barcelona is considering a move for Valencia forward Rodrigo Moreno from Mestalla to Camp Nou.
After Luis Suarez has been ruled out until the end of the season due to knee surgery, Los Blaugarana are in the transfer market looking for a replacement for the Uruguay striker. Barcelona and Valencia are said to be negotiating deals for the former Real Madrid and Benfica players.
"We are not talking about players from other teams. But (Rodrigo's) name is on the coach's table," said Bartomeu, launching Marca, Tuesday, January 28.
"And a replacement will arrive. I don't know if it will be from Barcelona B or from outside (the club). I like a lot of players," he continued.
One Barcelona player who is expected to stay on for as long as possible is Lionel Messi, but Bartomeu stressed that the Argentina captain has the freedom to decide his fate.
"He will finish (his contract) with Barcelona when he wants to. His relationship with Barcelona is forever," explained the president.
"He has more games to play here. Leo Messi will be around for a while," he said.
The defeat to Valencia at the weekend sent alarm bells at Camp Nou ringing again, but the president has asked to be calm.
"I'm not worried. We are working and trying hard. This is what playing is for, both La Liga Santander and the Champions League."
Barcelona fans are worried about the condition of their favorite team, especially after being overthrown by El Che at the Mestalla. However, Bartomeu emphasized that Barca's steps have not stopped.
"The Copa del Rey match against Leganes is getting closer, and then La Liga. It doesn't stop. We have a new coach in Setien and we are sure of what he is doing," he concluded.