Gerard Pique’s retirement is expected to have a significant impact for Barcelona, both financially and athletically.
Pique’s retirement should also free up some of the club’s wage budget as the veteran defender was one of the highest-paid players at Camp Nou, even though the team currently has few choices at center-back.
In fact, in the wake of Pique’s retirement, Barcelona may even think about signing Bernardo Silva in January, according to SPORT.
One of Barcelona’s major priorities during the summer transfer window was the outstanding player from Manchester City. After all, in Xavi’s search for the right Pedri companion, he had chosen him as the preferred alternative.
Due to the uncertainty surrounding Frenkie de Jong’s future, the Barcelona coach wished to upgrade the inside midfield position. However, the deal did not go through because Manchester City was reluctant to go with their prized playmaker. Barcelona would not have been able to buy the expensive Portuguese international, who was valued at almost €100 million, even if the English superpowers were to entertain a sale.
However, Barcelona believes they are now in a position to sign Silva in the forthcoming January transfer window as a result of Pique’s retirement. Not to mention that the club still has some income from the use of economic levers.
Although it seems improbable that Manchester City would explore a sale in the middle of the season, the club might use those resources to make a bid for Silva in January.
The Portuguese international may yet leave in the summer, particularly if Man City fails to win another Champions League championship.
