FC Barcelona, do they really need Ibrahim Afellay

The news linking Ibrahim Afellay to join FC Barcelona gained momentum after the continuous statements coming from the player's club. Nothing is certain yet, but it worth giving it a thought.

My five cents are as follows:

If -BIG IF- the reports and quotes coming from PSV officials are true, then the transfer is almost done. It is unusual that a club confirm negotiations until things are advanced (unless if they are inviting other teams to catch up and create a bidding war).

FC Barcelona already have a better back up for Xavi than Afellay in Busquets, especially with Mascherano starting to show the predicted quality. Thats on the short term. On the long term there are one or two other options. Beside,Afellay is more direct than Barca's normal buildup method, and while I insist that more directness is needed in the midfield, past experiments proved that Pep doesnt share that belief. This will create another challenge.

So, generally speaking, such transfer is not the priority as Barcelona have more urgent needs. But the price makes the condition irresistible.

1) because -like van bommel deal before- the benefits are certain. He has enough quality to serve the team well. Yet If he didnt prove useful selling him guarantees profit.

2) Barca squad is thin anyway there is a place for an additional player with decent qualities.

3) And most importantly, the money invested on him will not damage the financial possibilities to get the player we need: Striker.

He may end up as a back up for Iniesta’s role, not Xavi’s, in the midfield or on the flank. One can only hope he keep on taking longs shots he tested in his previous team if he joins Barcelona, instead of getting the Kieta/Alves infections (or instructions).

Is there a possibility to put 4 more millions on a Trezeguet-ic transfer as well? Only time can tell…

I will publish a Villarreal preview tomorrow morning, because it will be an interesting match that worth a preview. Till then, What do you think about Ibrahim Afellay case?

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