Cash-strapped Barcelona seal first sale of summer transfer window as Hansi Flick begins bid to register new signings by clearing deadwood

Barcelona will be looking to offload players deemed surplus to requirements in a bid to help head coach Flick register any potential new signings. The club seems to have already taken the first step towards achieving that goal, with Jijantes (h/t Football Espana) reporting that Como have completed the permanent transfer of Alex Valle.

Barcelona's struggles with finances have been well-documented. Over the course of the 2024-25 season, they got embroiled in registration drama, which put Dani Olmo and Pau Victor's futures at the club in jeopardy, albeit temporarily. Winning the La Liga and Copa del Rey trophies, as well as making a deep run in the Champions League, will have boosted their revenues, but Valle's sale to Como comes as an additional significant step towards improving the club's fiscal muscle for the future.

Valle was initially sent on loan to Celtic, before Como signed him in January on a short-term loan. After making 14 appearances for the club, the Italian outfit have gone ahead with the permanent transfer for the 21-year-old left-back. Como are believed to have activated the €6 million option to buy, of which they will pay €4m upfront and an additional €2m in variables.

Barcelona's faith in youth continues, with Gerard Martin earning the backup role to Alejandro Balde despite a tough outing against Inter. Martin, who extended his contract until 2028, will battle for minutes next season. Fellow youngster Jofre Torrents also renewed through 2028, with Director Deco impressed by his rise through the U-19s and Barca Atletic.

Hansi Flick's troops will play their final game of the season this weekend, when they visit the iconic San Mames stadium to take on fourth-placed Athletic Club.