Signing ruled out? Bajčetić could have already opted for another destination

The FC Barcelona is finding it increasingly difficult to secure the services of Stefan Bajčetić this week. The 19-year-old midfielder had been identified as an ideal 'low-cost' alternative to cover for the injured Marc Bernal, but the player himself apparently would have ruled out returning to Spain this summer and everything points to the fact that, as has been suggested for several days now, he could be going on loan to RB Salzburg for a year to regain the playing time he is unlikely to have at Arne Slot's Liverpool.

According to the latest information, the player from Vigo is reportedly hesitating about the option of Barça due to the economic problems of the Catalan club. Although Bernal's absence would allow the club to register another player in his place, the limited salary cap adds complexity to the signing of the midfielder, for whom the 'Reds' are asking for a fixed four million euros, despite it being a simple loan.

At this point, it is worth noting that both David Ornstein ('The Athletic') and Fabrizio Romano agree that Bajčetić's decision would have been to opt for Salzburg, a club with which his entourage has been negotiating for several days. The 19-year-old player had the approval of the Blaugrana coaching staff thanks to Thiago Alcántara's recommendation, but his option apparently is becoming less viable. Now, the board will have to look for another alternative in terms of midfielders, less than 48 hours before the end of the summer transfer window.

🚨🔴 Barcelona currently can’t proceed with Stefan Bajcetić deal due to issues with Financial Fair Play.

Salzburg expect Stefan to travel on Thursday to complete loan move from #LFC revealed two days ago.

If nothing changes on Thursday morning, Salzburg hope to get it done. pic.twitter.com/2dl6d97y4d

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 28, 2024

Barça still unable to achieve the desired return to the 1/1 rule

In that sense, Barça aims to close a disappointing summer due to the 'fault' of Financial Fair Play. The club did not close the expected sales, nor did it manage to receive the pending money from the sale of Barça Studios. Beyond the exits of Vitor Roque, Mika Faye, and Clément Lenglet, there wasn't even enough room to register Dani Olmo (the one from Terrassa joined the squad instead of Christensen). LaLiga also has not added the revenues from the new contract with Nike, which is why the club remains hamstrung in terms of reinforcement.