Ernesto Valverde is eager for a first leg advantage | FCBarcelona.com
On Valencia, Valencia was clear that they will prove to be a difficult opponent: ‘It won’t be like the last time, a 7-0 is not normal for a first game. Valencia were in a delicate position then, but now they have a team that is good enough to win any match. They’re a rival with very fast strikers and wingers, and the distance between the lines are short. A classic 4-4-2 formation is simple and well-worked, and they are counter-attack specialists.’ More here.
The left-back that could leave Barça and the one that could come in | Sport
Lucas Digne could be one of the players looking for an exit at the end of the season. He has fitted in well in the dressing room but his status at the club is not as strong as it is with France. Digne’s possible exit would mean a new left-back in the first team. Cucurella and Juan Miranda would be options from La Masia. On the other hand, according to AS, David Alaba’s name is on the table. More here.
Barca to renew Oriol Busquets | Marca
Oriol Busquets will have his contract renewed by Barcelona over the course of the next few days. The board had already told the player’s agent, Jose Maria Orobitg, that they would like him to continue at the club, however, that contact had taken place at the end of November last year. Now they have taken one more step, and in the coming days a first meeting will take place to lay the foundations for the renewal of the contract. More here.
In the last 24 hours, there have been significant movements in Barcelona’s move for Gremio’s Arthur. Barça want to invest 30 million on Arthur, which would include the commission for the player’s agent. Gremio, who have 60 percent of the economic rights, have made a counter offer of 36 million. More here.
Join Francesc and Dan as they debate how Barcelona can respond when opponents decide to defend deep, park the bus and hope for the best. Francesc is then joined by the brilliant Nuel Weinchard. The show ends with La Ronda of Quick-Fire Listener Questions.
