Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu says they’ll be working the swap market heavily this summer.
PSG star Neymar and Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez have both been linked with a move to Barcelona, but Bartomeu pointed out that swap deals are the only way the club can sign a player for the time being.
“I have said before that the coronavirus pandemic has affected many projects and strategies,” he noted.
“If players do not come on a swap deal, it is almost impossible for the club to sign players.
“We have spoken with Inter, quite a few weeks ago.
“Currently there is no open conversation, the topic is halted.”
The two clubs, after months of negotiations, have agreed to take a break as they pursue their own season targets. However, talks will eventually resume as Barca seek to sign the Argentina international.
Sport says Lautaro has agreed personal terms with Barca and wants to move to Spain this summer – which has been made clear to Inter.
Barca now feel they’re in a strong position and will push Inter to sell for €65m cash, rather than Lautaro’s original €111m buyout clause.
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