Barcelona ditch Haaland to focus on 'ideal candidate' at Newcastle after Eddie Howe 'sack update'

Barcelona have reportedly switched their transfer focus to a 'cheaper alternative'

Newcastle United's poor form and rumours of Eddie Howe's potential sacking have led to Barcelona changing their transfer plans, according to reports in Spain.

The Catalan giants were heavily linked with a move for Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland, but it is now claimed that they have cooled their interest in the Norwegian.

Newcastle's struggles could open the door for Barcelona

Newcastle have endured a difficult start to the season, losing five of their first seven Premier League games and sitting just two points above the relegation zone.

This has led to speculation that Howe's job could be in jeopardy, with former Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde among the favourites to replace him.

If Howe were to be sacked, it could open the door for Barcelona to make a move for one of Newcastle's players, with Allan Saint-Maximin and Bruno Guimaraes reportedly on their radar.

Barcelona's financial problems could force them to sell players

Barcelona are in a difficult financial situation and need to raise funds in order to comply with La Liga's financial fair play regulations.

This could force them to sell some of their key players, with Frenkie de Jong, Memphis Depay and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang all linked with moves away from the club.

The 'ideal candidate' could be a cheaper alternative to Haaland

With Barcelona facing financial difficulties, it is unlikely that they will be able to afford to sign Haaland, who is valued at around €150 million.

Instead, they are said to be looking at cheaper alternatives, with Newcastle's Callum Wilson and Brighton's Neal Maupay among the players who have been linked with a move to the Camp Nou.

Conclusion

Barcelona's decision to switch their transfer focus away from Haaland is a sign of the financial difficulties that the club is facing.

If Newcastle's struggles continue, it could open the door for Barcelona to make a move for one of their players, but it is more likely that they will look to sign a cheaper alternative to Haaland.