With Frenkie de Jong set to leave for Manchester United, Barcelona intend to fish in Manchester City for his replacement.
However, the Cityzens have slapped a staggering €90m price tag on Bernado Silva.
Regardless, there are cheaper alternatives the Blaugrana could explore.
For €40m or less
Mikel Merino. A Culer recently recommended the 25-year-old to Barcelona. He could leave Sociedad if Barca show a keen interest.
Youri Tielemans. Barcelona have not looked the way of the dazzling Belgian. However, he could be available on the cheap as his contract expires next summer.
Carlos Soler. Barca's interest in the Spaniard looks to have cooled. Still, Soler is one midfielder who could offer as much as Silva and De Jong, and even more.
Fabian Ruiz. Barcelona have recently been linked with the Spaniard who excelled in Italy last season. He has an eye for goal and rarely gets injured. What's more, he's affordable.
Ilkay Gündogan. Rather than lavish the windfall from De Jong sale on Silva, Barca can opt for an alternative at the same club.
For free
Christian Eriksen. Barcelona could go for the Danish icon who can arrive for free this summer. The midfielder is an excellent player. However, given his age (30), he may only be able to give 2 years to a new club.
Corentin Tolisso. Barca could go for the speedy French midfielder whose contract at Bayern expires this summer.
