"Their bitter rivals Real Madrid underperformed for much of the first half the season, to the point where they fired coach Xabi Alonso last month, and Atlético Madrid failed to take advantage and mount their own title challenge. But in the past week, Barça suffered a 4-0 thrashing at Atlético that's all but dumped them out of the Copa del Rey, and Monday's shock 2-1 loss at Catalan neighbours Girona allowed Madrid to go two points clear at the top of the league."
"Marsden: Barça should sign a Kylian Mbappé or a Harry Kane, but they also should sign a centre-back, a full-back and a holding midfielder, probably another winger as well, so where will they streamline their spending? I would lean toward a centre-back. But if it's a striker, Álvarez is well-liked within the club's hierarchy. However, his recent form -- no goals in 11 games before scoring against Barça last week -- has raised doubts."
Barcelona began the season strongly and appeared set to retain the LaLiga title after rivals underperformed. Recent poor results — a 4-0 loss to Atlético and a 2-1 defeat at Girona — have derailed cup hopes and allowed Real Madrid to move two points clear. Squad reliance on young Lamine Yamal is inconsistent, and significant financial constraints require prioritised transfer targets. Club scouting includes Julián Álvarez and Dusan Vlahovic among striker options. Transfer strategy debate includes signing a top striker like Mbappé or Kane, but also addressing defensive and midfield needs, with a centre-back the likely priority.
Read at ESPN.com
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