Explained: Why Barcelona can't sign a midfielder in January until Barca Studios sale is finalised

Barcelona boss Xavi would like to strengthen his midfield following the long-term ACL injury to Gavi. The Blaugrana have already secured the services of Vitor Roque, but Xavi still believes the side are too light in the middle of the park. However, Barcelona's financial difficulties make another signing of a midfielder tricky.

Barca are in the process of trying to sell Barça Studios to German investment firm, Libero. According to sport.es, the hope is that the club, with the added investment, would be able to use 80% of Gavi's wages to help fund the loan signing of a midfielder. That is what is potentially delaying an imminent move for fresh reinforcements.

New Barcelona signing, Vitor Roque, has scored 12 goals and registered 3 assists in 24 matches this season. In total, Roque has scored 20 more goals and provided eight more assists for Athletico Paranaense than Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr. did in his time at Flamengo.

Should the sale of Barca Studios be completed, Barcelona will reportedly explore a series of temporary loan signings to bolster options in midfield. The club have been linked with Thiago Alcantara and Giovani Lo Celso amongst others.