Barcelona's top 3 summer targets

Despite Barcelona's La Liga success, they came up short again in the Champions League and have had to say goodbye to some of the club's legends. Veterans Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets said their farewells, and now the club is faced with the tricky challenge of replacing them.

As if that wasn't enough, the Spaniards have to do so within tight restrictions of Financial Fair Play rules, meaning they have already lost out on some talent, as they can't offer the same salaries as other top European teams or Saudi Arabia.

They're still looking to make some new signings however, so take a look at some of their most important targets this summer.

Barcelona's summer wishlist 

Ivan Fresneda

Fresneda would be a huge relief for Barca, who have long-struggled for right-backs and have had to resort to putting in Jules Kounde and Sergio Roberto. He could definitely look to be a long-term signing for the Catalans, at only 18 years old, solving their right-back difficulties for the forseeable future.

Although his team, Real Valladolid were relegated from the top flight, he had an excellent season and has attracted the attention of several clubs. The relegation makes things easier for Barca, as it takes his release clause down to €20 million, which is cheaper than the other alternatives the club had been looking at.

After a stunning breakout season, Barcelona could be an attractive prospect for the young Spaniard as he looks to keep developing, and the prospect of Champions League games could be an added incentive.

Joao Palhinha

It's no secret that one of Xavi Hernandez's top priority this summer is replacing Sergio Busquets. Lots of the players the Catalans have considered have received better offers or are simply too expensive to sign, like Bayern's Joshua Kimmich.

One of the next candidates on the list is Fulham's Joao Palhinha, who has also been receiving attention from Premier League side, West Ham. Barca's sporting director, Deco, is an admirer of the 27-year-old, particularly his ability to break up play and feels he would be a good addition to the squad.

Palhinha made 40 appearances for Fulham last season, and scored four goals across the campaign. Financial problems may mean that Barca have to look elsewhere, as the Portuguese star isn't cheap, but they're keeping an eye on him for now.

Arda Guler

Guler has emerged as a sensation, and several clubs are vying for his signing. The 18-year-old has come through Turkish side Fenerbahce, where he made 35 appearances last season, scoring six goals and providing another six assists.

Sporting director, Deco recently made a trip to Istanbul, and has reportedly met with the player's agents. They have competition however from rivals Real Madrid, who have also spotted the young talent, and may be able to draw him in, given their financial stability.

Like Fresneda, Guler could be a long-term signing and the youngster would be able to develop alongside some of the biggest talents of world football.