Why have Barcelona brought him in?
Quite simply, Depay brings goals. In last season’s Ligue 1, only Kylian Mbappe had more than his 20 strikes, and Depay notched 63 goals in 139 league games while in France.
The Dutchman also registered 12 assists, a league high.
Crucially, at a time where money is tight in Catalonia, Depay has been signed on a free transfer. It is unusual for a club to sign a player of Depay’s undoubted quality for free, and considering Barcelona have also been missing the goals of Luis Suarez, Depay seems like a very smart piece of business.
Is he replacing Messi?
It seems bizarre that Messi has still not signed a contract extension with Barcelona, considering his contract expires in 11 days. But confidence is high that he will remain at the club.
Speaking last month, Barcelona president Joan Laporta said he believes Messi “would like to stay”.
“We can make an offer within our possibilities,” he added.
“Leo deserves much more, and could earn more elsewhere. I’m convinced he values the effort we are making.
“Leo is not about money, but a team which can win everything. I am moderately optimistic.
(Photo: Alyn Ledang – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)