Barcelona are ‘looking to shed four first team players’ from their squad before leaving for their pre-season tour of America next week.
Samuel Umtiti is the only player to leave the club so far this summer after having his contract terminated three years early, but Barca’s financial situation means they are keen to reduce the wage bill by selling more fringe players.
According to reports in Diario AS, Xavi’s side are still looking to shift Clement Lenglet, Alex Collado, Franck Kessie and Sergino Dest before leaving for the US next Wednesday.
Lenglet spent last season on loan at Tottenham, but struggled to make much of an impact in an underwhelming season for the North London side.
American fullback Dest also spent time away from the Nou Camp at AC Milan last season.
His form was poor in Italy, with just eight appearances in Serie A, and although a sale is preferred, the club may be consigned to a further loan deal.
He has been linked with Bundesliga outfit Union Berlin, although little movement has been made following those reports.
As for Kessie, there is interest in the centre back from Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal and Juventus, but the 26-year-old does not appear ken on either move.
According to reports in Marca, he would rather stay at Barcelona or join a Premier League side.
The Ivory Coast international only joined Xavi’s side last summer, and played a key role in their La Liga win in 2022-23.
The last of the five players that is expected to be moved on is Alex Collado, returning from fellow LaLiga side Elche.
He managed just a single goal and assist in 15 outings in the Spanish top-flight, and is set for the exit with just one year left on his contract.
Barca will return to La Liga action when they face Getafe in the first match of the 2023-24 campaign on August 13
