The Barcelona coach discussed the lack of cover for the injured Luis Suárez during his press conference ahead of the Copa del Rey game against Leganés.
Quique Setién spoke to the press ahead of Barcelona’s Copa del Rey last 16 match against Leganés on Thursday and discussed the possibility of reinforcements arriving before the end of the transfer window after the departures of Jean-Clair Todibo, Carles Aleñá and Carles Pérez.
“It would be interesting if a player arrives,” Setién said after talks broke down over a move for Spain and Valencia striker Rodrigo. “I’m happy with what we have.”
Setién’s honeymoon period at Camp Nou has been brief with defeat at Mestalla bringing an end to Barça’s 12-week run at the top of the Liga table with Real Madrid taking advantage to move three points clear after victory over Valladolid. A long-term injury to Luis Suárez has left Setién without a recognized striker and the Uruguayan is unlikely to feature until at least April, heightening the need for a replacement to be brought in after a goalless outing in Valencia, a narrow 2-1 Copa win over Ibiza and a 1-0 victory at home against Granada in Suárez’s absence.
Barça are reportedly looking into the option of signing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang from Arsenal but have been quoted 60 million euros, a sizeable sum for a January venture and given the Gabon striker turned 30 last year.
Auba too rich for Barça's liking?
A cheaper, proven option is preferable for the Barça board with Ousmane Dembélé nearing a comeback from a hamstring injury but another gamble like Kevin-Prince Boateng is unlikely to be considered.
“I come from a humble background and I’m used to working with what I’ve got,” Setién said of the lack of incoming transfers. “And I am delighted with what I’ve got. This team is ready to compete across all competitions.”
Of Leganés, who are 19th in Primera but held Atlético to a 0-0 draw in the Metropolitano last weekend, the Barça noted: “Our objective is control all the games we play and not just this one. We know that we have to take the game to them but we also have to limit the number of chances we give them. They don’t have a lot to lose so they can play with calm. We all want to win the game and get to the final.”
Source: m.allfootballapp.com