Over the last two seasons, Barcelona have invested in three different centre-forwards. Memphis Depay was signed in the summer of 2021 on a free transfer, after which the club decided to get in Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang from Arsenal in January 2022.
Auba impressed the coaching staff and fans alike during his half-a-season at the Camp Nou, but his first-choice starting spot was taken by Robert Lewandowski in the summer of 2022.
However, it seems Barça are ready to sign another striker soon. According to a report published by Mundo Deportivo, one of the names on their agenda is Borussia Dortmund’s Youssoufa Moukoko.
Barcelona are set to scout the German teenager during the World Cup, as he has been called up to represent DFB.
At 17, Moukoko has the world of football at his feet. With his contract expiring in the summer of 2023, there will be a lot of teams fighting for his signature.
The youngster made his debut for Dortmund three seasons ago, and is now playing his first full season with the senior team. In 14 games so far this season, he has scored six goals and given three assists.
Liverpool and Manchester United are two of the other teams credited with an interest in Moukoko, who had a sly response when asked about his future during a press-conference with Germany.
“I feel very comfortable in Dortmund, I feel the confidence of the coach. You’ll find out in the end whether I decide to stay or not.” he said.
Dortmund could be forced to sell Moukoko during the January transfer window if push comes to shove, but it seems improbable that Barcelona will be involved in the race for him during that time.
Joan Laporta has already gone public about La Liga’s resistance about letting Barcelona sign players in the winter. At most, one can expect the club to register the likes of Gavi, Alejandro Balde, Inaki Pena, and Pablo Torre to the senior team in January.
That said, Memphis Depay has been linked with an exit from the Camp Nou, and if he ends up leaving as the reports suggest, Barça might have to dive into the market to sign a replacement for the Dutchman.