The Catalan giants could not sign new players due to LaLiga financial regulations, even though they had freed substantial funds through economic levers that allowed the club the signing five players during the summer.
The fourth of the “levers” was activated on Friday. Following being approved by LaLiga they were able to name Franck Kessie Andreas Christensen, Robert Lewandowski, and Raphinha and they will take on Rayo Vallecano at 8 pm BST.
However, the club is waiting to receive France defender Jules Kounde officially on board to play.
This restriction also was in the case of Ousmane Dembele as well as Sergi Roberto. Both players signed free-agent contracts in the summer, before being signed by the club, however, they’ve been allowed to play.
Barcelona has been informed that they must free their salary mass in order to sign Kunde. This also applies to any further signings.
The club’s levers have included selling shares of their future TV rights as well as Media Production Unit Barca Studios.
This past Friday they bought an additional 24.5 percent of Barca Studios to Orpheus Media for PS84.6m The expectation was to bring in enough money to meet the needs of L Liga and allow Barca to sign at least one of the new members they have signed.
Xavi is relieved Barca’s new boys have been registered
In his press event on Friday Coach, Xavi told reporters that Barca is “still working on the matter” He had until two hours before kickoff to have their registrations confirmed.
“The club is extremely positive,” said Xavi. “We’ve just declared the fourth lever and we’re hopeful that tomorrow’s lever will be in place. It’s possible that it’s not complete, but we’ll know tomorrow.
“We remain with two hours to go before the start. The club is making an incredible job. I’m thrilled and happy with the new additions to the team and the team we’ve created.
“We’re at the point of being fully prepared for competition, however, in terms of registrations we’re waiting until tomorrow to register, and currently, we’re hopeful.”