In his interview with Catalunya Ràdio, Robert Fernández hinted that Barcelona are seriously looking at taking advantage of the winter transfer window to bring in some fresh blood.

Although the 'Azulgranas' sporting director said the winter was "not an easy time to do business", the Catalan club is expected to try to sign some new talent at the first available opportunity, as they will once again be able to register new players from January with their FIFA sanction coming to an end.

The start of the 2015/16 season, having brought a number of important injuries and seen poor performances from certain players, has highlighted the fact that the Barcelona squad are operating somewhat short-handed. Even though Arda Turan and Aleix Vidal are primed and waiting in the wings, Rafinha's long-term layoff creates a need to sign someone who can fill his place in the team.

Quality back-up for the trident is also an area that is lacking. Any absence among the Neymar, Luis Suárez or Leo Messi trio negatively impacts on the results. Pedro was there to step into the breach last season but Sandro and Munir have so far been unconvincing this year.

Given the situation, Barcelona could try to close a deal in the coming months. Philippe Coutinho, Sofiane Feghouli, Andriy Yarmolenko, Nolito and even Paul Pogba are some of the names that have been doing the rounds but, as Fernández says, "it's something that requires careful consideration".