Messi983
Senior Member
5/6m NET, under half of Joey Cancel.
Dest was actually alright here aswell when at LB. Being inverted helped curve his tactical naivities somehow.
Cancelo is also twice the player imo. And I'm not his fan and wouldn't pay big fee for him at his age and documented history of falling out with his managers/clubs after some time for whatever reason(s). Paying 30-40m and giving him a 4-5 year contract (will probably have to do with a longer contract to lower yearly cost and then hope to ship him to SA in 2-3 years if/when he declines) just calls for troubles imo.
But looks like the club (or I would say mostly Laporta who loves both Joaos and/or want to do a favor to his amigo Mendes) wants him back and so there is no need to keep Dest whose contract is also expiring next year. Get whatever we can for him from either PSV or offer him to other clubs if they refuse to pay 10m.
Obviously if Cancelo is brought back he'd have to take pay cut like Felix did this season. Regardless if we'll buy him permanently or if it will be another loan (most likely with obligation to buy this time).
Fort shouldn't be considered for first team plans next season under any circumstances.
This will be killing his career before it starts. Let him be the emerging option like this year.
If Cancelo will return then Fort would be a 3rd option at both RB/LB. That's what I've meant. No need to keep Dest for that role if we have Fort.
RB: Cancelo, Kounde, Fort
LB: Balde, Cancelo, Fort
But ofc that's only if Xavi stays. We have no idea how a new coach would want to use Cancelo or Kounde and if he would rate Fort.
There is also a possibility of keeping Julian Araujo and maybe use Faye in that hybrid LCB/LB role similar to Malonso last season. So we have some options even if Cancelo won't return but if he will even more so due to his versatility. And there is also a possibility to sign a LB on a free. And I don't mean an oldie like Alonso but younger players like Sergi Cardona or Miranda. Sure, they are not world beaters but could do their job for a year or two and then possibly be sold for a profit when we'll be able to afford someone better.
That said, Fort should really get regular minutes in BA next season (especially if promoted to Segunda) rather than warming first team bench. The same with Guiu.