Barcelona Transfers: Barca Target Striker and New Deal for Neymar

Barcelona will target another striker, as well as pursue a new and improved deal for Brazilian Neymar Jr. Club president Josep Maria Bartomeu confirmed the plans during an interview with Spanish publication Sport (h/t ESPN FC).

On the cusp of seeing his club's global-transfer ban come to an end in January, Bartomeu outlined manager Luis Enrique's potential targets. Specifically, he stressed how attacking reinforcements will be on the agenda: "The coach and the technical staff want a striker. If he comes it will be a loan deal with a right to buy."

On the face of it, Barca are the last club needing an extra striker. After all, last season's treble winners boast the most fearsome three-man forward line in world football. No defence can withstand the collective talents of Neymar, Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez.

Adding another marquee forward alongside this group is a scary thought for any of Barca's rivals for this season's major prizes. But manager Luis Enrique will be wary about the lack of depth behind his main stars.

Only talented young prospect Munir stands out as obvious cover. But he's struggled this season, according to Metro's Jason Pettigrove.

Manu Fernandez/Associated Press

The club also sold Pedro to Chelsea near the end of the summer transfer window, saying goodbye to an experienced, prolific and useful contributor. It makes sense to find a suitable replacement—one who could step in and find the net.

As to the identity of Barcelona's potential target, BBC Sport's Andy West offered the name of one of the rising stars in Spain's top flight this season, although he also noted how recent developments may scupper any possible deal:

While depth up front is an issue, Neymar's long-term future also remains a concern. But Bartomeu has indicated the lines of communication are open regarding a new contract:

"

I've been talking with his father in the last few days but what Barca have done it to move things forward and call Neymar, recognising that we pay him less than he deserves and offering to start speaking about updating his contract.

I'm convinced that in the next few months we'll reach an agreement with Neymar. He represents the future of Barca and it's not just me who says that.

"

Few can dispute how well 23-year-old Neymar is performing this season. The South American star has hit 16 goals and provided eight assists in La Liga and UEFA Champions League action, according to WhoScored.com.

Bartomeu recently told Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo (h/t Daily Express writer Joe Short) he wants to resolve Neymar's future to ward off interest from other clubs. 

Short also noted how Premier League side Manchester United had pursued Neymar in the summer.

Keeping Neymar alongside Suarez and Messi is vital to cementing Barca's status as the team to beat at the top level of European football. More than that, though, the Brazilian represents the club's future.

Agreeing a new contract with Neymar and adding a quality striker for cover would represent a major coup for the squad that still looks a good bet to retain its La Liga and Champions League crowns.