Barca may sign a Dembele replacement - reports

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The club may be allowed to reinforce their squad

Barcelona are reportedly considering signing a replacement forward after learning that Ousmane Dembele is set for another spell on the sidelines with a torn hamstring.

Sport report that Barca will be allowed to bring in a player if Dembele is ruled out for five months or more even though the transfer window is closed.

The rules state they will only be able to sign a player from within Spain and must basically apply for permission to add a player. If they do sign a player and Dembele were to recover quicker than expected he would not be allowed back into the squad until next season.

Another report from Sport mentions a few names. They claim Cristhian Stuani, Willian Jose, Carlos Bacca, Rodrigo, Jaime Mata and Jaime Mata are all possible.

Mundo Deportivo also reckon Barca are already thinking about alternatives. They note that if the RFEF santions a signing Barcelona will have 15 days to complete a transfer. MD also point out the player would only be available for La Liga and the Copa del Rey.

Over at Cat Radio the word is that Stuani and Rodrigo are possible options, although whether Barca can make a signing in 15 days when they couldn’t manage it in the whole of January remains to be seen.

Source: barcablaugranes.com