Memphis Depay has ruled out departing Barcelona this summer, notwithstanding the signings of Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha.
The Dutch star had a successful debut season after standing out as the Spanish club’s standout recruit last summer. He finished as a joint top scorer at FC Barcelona with 13 goals in his debut season.
However, it seems that Depay may not have a place in Barcelona’s lineup given the signing of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in January and Barca’s investment in strikers like Lewandowski and Raphina over the summer.
Depay, 26, is content to stay and compete for a spot, so whatever intentions Barcelona had to profit financially from his transfer may be shelved.
The attacker reportedly assured his teammates he has no plans to leave and said, “Even if six forwards come, I will continue.” This is according to Sport in Spain.
Depay’s position may have helped Barcelona avoid some trouble. The club also hoped to reduce its roster in addition to recovering some money for the Dutchman and aiding in their capacity to stay below the La Liga salary cap.
Seven of the 32 players on their roster at the moment won’t be able to sign with Xavi’s team for the upcoming campaign, leaving the Spanish manager with an excessively large group of players.
Depay’s determination on sticking with the team coincides with the ongoing dispute involving Frenkie de Jong, another star for Barcelona who wants to stay at the Nou Camp.
Barcelona and Manchester United had previously reached an agreement on a price, but Depay’s Dutch teammate is eager to stay, despite the fact that the club still owes De Jog £17 million in deferred wages.
Will Xavi give Memphis Depay some playing time?
Depay, 28, left Lyon after his contract expired last summer to join Barcelona on a free transfer, but ever since Xavi replaced Ronald Koeman as manager, he has struggled to make an impact.
After working with him at the international level, Koeman personally selected Depay last year, and the forward suffered more than most after Xavi’s arrival.
At the very least, his aggregate of 12 goals and 2 assists in 28 La Liga games is good, but since Xavi doesn’t have him in his plans for next year, the Blaugrana are prepared to trade.
Selling undesired assets is high on the Camp Nou club’s priority list this summer due to ongoing financial concerns, as seen by their desire to transfer Sergino Dest and Samuel Umtiti.
Another player on their “for sale” list is Depay, especially in light of Raphinha’s signing from Leeds United as a wide receiver.
Both Arsenal and Chelsea were interested in the Brazilian international, and the Blues even reached an agreement with Leeds, but the player eventually joined Barcelona.
Barcelona is willing to allow one of their forwards to depart this summer, and it looks like Depay is the one who has been chosen because Raphinha is already settled in Camp Nou.
