Hansi Flick's new Barça is starting to take shape: space must be made for new signings and the accounts must be balanced.
The first major casualty already has a name and surname: Andreas Christensen. The Dane isn't part of the coach's plans, who has already informed him of his situation. He has asked him to look for a new club this summer.
The decision isn't random. The imminent arrival of Nico Williams requires space in the squad and, above all, an adjustment to the wage bill.
Barça needs to free up millions to comply with LaLiga's financial fair play, and Christensen appears to be the weakest link in the defense.
Priority: Register Nico Williams
The sporting management is determined to sign Nico Williams and make it official as soon as possible. The Athletic winger is one of the main priorities to give the team more imbalance and speed on the wing.
Lamine Yamal and Raphinha need real competition, and Flick has given the green light to his signing. But to register him, players with high salaries must be moved out.
Christensen earns a high salary for his role in the team and, although he has performed acceptably, he hasn't managed to establish himself as an undisputed starter.
Given the impossibility of selling other players with less market value, the Danish center-back will be the main sacrifice to make room for Nico.
Araujo stays, ter Stegen will be next
Flick's decision also strengthens Ronald Araujo's role, who has received the full trust of the coaching staff. The Uruguayan will be the leader of the backline and is expected to lead the Barça defense. Meanwhile, Marc-André ter Stegen could also be affected soon.
The German goalkeeper, who has one of the highest salaries in the locker room, is on the list of possible departures and could be next.
Flick doesn't want a bloated squad or discontented players. His idea is clear: a short squad, with young players from La Masia and key signings like Nico Williams. The rest will have to look for minutes away from Camp Nou.
Christensen on the way out
The club is already working to place Christensen. There is interest from the Premier League and the Bundesliga, and Barça expects to receive an amount close to €20 million. This amount would ease the financial pressure and allow Nico to be registered without problems.
The operation is underway and there is no turning back. Flick has already made his choice: Nico comes in, Christensen goes out.