Raheem Sterling is amongst Barcelona’s transfer targets, although the cash-strapped Catalan club will be looking to secure initial loan deals given their financial situation.
Barcelona are considering a move for Sterling as the Spanish side seek reinforcements during the January transfer window, having appointed Xavi as the club’s new manager following a disappointing start to the season under predecessor Ronald Koeman.
Sterling has struggled for form and opportunities at Manchester City in recent months and has made just three league starts during the current campaign, admitting his desire to leave the Etihad should his situation not improve.
The 26-year-old also discussed his ambition to play abroad and Marca are reporting that Barcelona are ready to make a move for the England international in January.
However, given the club’s dire financial situation any deal would need to be a loan with an option to buy, with ESPN reporting that Xavi will have as little as €10m to spend in the winter window.
Barcelona’s gross debt has reached €1.4 billion and La Liga have slashed the club’s spending cap for the season, whilst lucrative contract renewals for Pedri and Ansu Fati – alongside the cost of hiring Xavi and replacing Koeman – have further cut into the budget.
Given Barcelona’s spending abilities, any move for Sterling would have to be on an initial loan basis, and it remains to be seen whether City would sanction such a deal for a player still under contract until 2023.
Dani Olmo is another name the club are considering during the winter window, though the RB Leipzig star looks out of financial reach for the Catalans at present.
