Luis Suarez Philippe Coutinho Sergi Roberto BarcelonaGetty Images

Valverde promises additions at Barcelona, but no overhaul

Ernesto Valverde will be looking to strengthen his Barcelona side during the summer transfer window, but insists he will not “reshape the whole team”.

Those at Camp Nou have secured a domestic double in 2017-18, with Copa del Rey success complementing another La Liga title triumph.

They are, however, preparing to part with club icon Andres Iniesta, as he readies himself for a new challenge, while speculation surrounds the respective futures of Ousmane Dembele, Yerry Mina, Samuel Umtiti and Andre Gomes.

Article continues below

Additions will be required as a result, with Barca ready to spend again after breaking their transfer record in the last two windows for Dembele and Philippe Coutinho.

Valverde told reporters ahead of a final day showdown with Real Sociedad: "We have to strengthen in some positions, but not reshape the whole team.

"I don't want a huge squad, plus there is also the youth team to consider.

"We have won the league and cup with a solid base of players who we trust, we only need small changes."

Barca can be expected to bolster their ranks in midfield, with the departure of club captain Iniesta set to create a sizeable void.

Valverde is, however, aware that it would be foolish to try and bring in somebody capable of filling the World Cup winner’s boots.

He added: "We aren't going to fall into the mistake of looking for another Andres.

"You quite simply are never going to find one.

"There are players with profiles like [Carles] Alena, Denis [Suarez] and Coutinho, these could help us offensively."

Advertisement