Barcelona could have £52m January transfer budget under La Liga rules

Barcelona may be able to spend about €60m (£52m) in the January transfer window, although the club is not expected to rush into using the full amount to sign new players.

According to Diario Sport, financial fair play rules could allow the La Liga leaders to commit that sum during the winter market. However, Barcelona are considering using the financial flexibility to strengthen their wage fund rather than immediately investing it in transfers.

The club have experienced difficulties with their wage bill for several years. Under a special La Liga rule, the money available to Barcelona could therefore be allocated towards increasing the salary limit, giving them greater room to manage their squad and contracts.

The situation means the figure of €60m should not necessarily be viewed as a straightforward transfer budget. Although the financial fair play regulations may permit Barcelona to spend around that amount in January, the club have not indicated that they intend to devote all of it to new arrivals.

Barcelona’s winter priorities could nevertheless include a central defender. Head coach Hansi Flick wanted the club to sign a new player in that position during the summer, but Barcelona were unable to complete such a deal.

It is possible that sporting director Deco will return to the issue during the January transfer window. Any decision will have to take account of both Flick’s desire to strengthen in defence and the club’s continuing need to manage its wage fund within La Liga’s financial regulations.

The potential availability of €60m gives Barcelona options, but the club must decide how best to use the permitted amount. Directing the money towards salaries could be as important as recruiting another player, given the difficulties Barcelona have faced with their wage structure.

Barcelona have made a perfect start to the La Liga season. After four rounds, they sit at the top of the table with 12 points.