Four players who need to leave Barcelona in the January transfer window

Barcelona had a busy summer in the transfer window filled with incomings and outgoings as Eric Abidal and Co tried to find the right mix, but the Blaugrana roster still seems imperfect.

The January window could be a time of surprises with plenty of rumours already floating about. Let’s see the players Barcelona should let go this coming winter to improve their title chances:

Jasper Cillessen

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Here’s the truth: Jasper Cillessen is too good a goalkeeper to be on the bench and only play domestic cup games. He’s part of a Netherlands team who are proving their doubters wrong with a string of world class performances, and their number one has a host of suitors who will guarantee him regular football. It’s best that Barcelona opt to sell Cillessen if a bid comes in as Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s position won’t be compromised for years to come. Cillessen has a respectable value in the market so if he goes, he goes with a price tag.

Thomas Vermaelen

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The 33-year-old former Arsenal captain’s stint at Barcelona has been hampered by constant injuries and as of now, he’s recovering from yet another one. But the defender has done his part, he has stepped up when needed the most (most notably against Real Madrid). Barcelona are unlikely to renew his current deal which means he can walk away for free next summer. Therefore Barca should cash-in if they receive an offer this winter. Vermaelen has done a decent job and if he departs, he does so as a respected Barcelona player.

Rafinha

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His performances are slowly garnering attention and appraisal, but the creative Brazilian has spent the majority of his Barcelona career as a bench-warmer. Rafinha has the quality to be in the first team of most top clubs, but not Barcelona. His loan move to Inter last season paid off and it’s understandable he wants more playing time. However, with the likes of La Masia stalwarts like Carles Alena and Riqui Puig waiting for their call, it’s best that Barcelona let him go. He will have a host of suitors, most probably from Italy where his record has been great, so selling him for a decent price will be a nice piece of business.

Denis Suarez

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Once touted as prolific and promising, the Spaniard has failed to make the impression at Barcelona that was expected. He was part of Spain’s Under-21 squad that also included the likes of Saul Niguez and Marco Asensio, but unlike the duo he hasn’t made an impact with the senior squad. He hasn’t played a single minute in La Liga this season and his value in the football market has hit a low. His example perfectly sums up the latest Barcelona transfer policy: why nurture when you can buy? With all of this being said, Denis deserves a chance to shine and moving out of Camp Nou would be for the best. An initial loan move without the option to buy is perfect for the skilful Spaniard.

A tough call, but these are the players who should be let go from the team this winter. What are your thoughts? Let us know!