Koeman Aware Ousmane Dembele Could Still Leave Barcelona

Ronald Koeman is aware that there is a chance that he will have to make changes after the Monday transfer deadline. One name that has been linked to a possible departure from Camp Nou is Ousmane Dembele. The 23-year-old forward has been heavily linked to a move to Old Trafford which could happen in the next 24 hours.

United is believed to be targeting Dembele as an alternative to Jadon Sancho. However, Barca made it clear that the only way the French player is moving out of Camp Nou is if United meets its asking price, Mundo Deportivo reported. That could still happen and Koeman appears ready for the possibility of the Red Devils finding a way to meet that demand.

"What is certain in the world? I don't know," Koeman told reporters via Goal. "At the moment, he's a Barcelona player. There's still one day left for incomings and outgoings. We'll see."

Koeman was thrown the question after their 1-1 draw with Sevilla. The result ended Barcelona’s 100% start of the season. Luuk de Jong and Philippe Coutinho accounted for the goals of their respective sides.

Barca remains strapped for cash as the club tries to find ways to gain some financial flexibility. The impact from the pandemic over the last six months has not spared the club, a similar predicament that other clubs are dealing with right now.

Barcelona's current financial woes also have some bearing on its planned signings, which reportedly include Memphis Depay and Eric Garcia. If the Dembele deal does push through, Barca may be able to sign the two players. But this is only if United or other clubs can meet its valuation.

It should be noted as well that United is also taking a gamble. As previously reported, the 23-year-old French player has been struggling with Barca and is coming off surgery for his hamstring in February. Unless the club spots some other player who can fill in the spot originally meant for Sancho, Dembele is the plausible alternative for now.

Following the Sevilla match, Koeman said he is happy with Barcelona's efforts against a formidable opponent.

"I'm happy with the team's performance," Koeman said. "The team was tired, but we fought until the end. But [we played against] a great opponent."