How Barcelona's midfield could look in the future...

Barcelona have got to work on rejuvenating their midfield and are looking for players that have the club's DNA. 

Therefore, they will look to sign players of a certain style. Arthur was the first, but others could follow. The signings will mix with players from La Masia...

The possibilities 

De Jong (Ajax, 21)

One of the club's top targets is Ajax's Frenkie de Jong. Talks are advanced with the Ajax midfielder, who can play across the midfield. It will be expensive to buy him, though, given the competition from Europe's other big clubs. 

His way of moving the ball provoked memoties of Johan Cruyff. His arrival could complicate the future of players like Ivan Rakitic, who doesn't have an improved contract offer on the table and could leave in the summer. 

Rabiot (PSG, 23)

Out of contract in the summer, Rabiot's a market opportunity. PSG seem to have given up on the idea of renewing his terms and have said he won't be part of the first team anymore. Barça are one of the best placed clubs in the race to sign him. 

There are question marks over his character. He refused to be a backup for France's World Cup squad and has had the occasional problem with PSG. 

Arthur (22)

One of the big positives of the first half of the season. Arthur is the most Xavi-like midfielder Barça have had since Xavi himself left the club. 

Despite coming from Brazilian football, his adaption has been quicker than expected. He's a specialist in possession football and a smart passer. 

Carles Aleña (20)

An injury set him back at the start of the season but he's now a first team players. He is an attacking midfielder who can do danger in the final third -- as shown by his goal against Villarrea. In addition to his quality, he has his head screwed on and is prepared to be patient and wait for his chance. 

Riqui Puig (19) 

You just have to see him touch the ball to know he's a special player. Riqui Puig is one of those players that stands out at any level. He can break through the lines, glides with the ball and has an eye for the final pass -- as he showed in the Copa del Rey recently, setting up Denis Suarez. 

The boldness of his play contrasts with his fragile appearance, although thaty hasn't held him back. He trains with the first team regularly and is one of Ernesto Valverde's preferred youngsters at the club. 

Oriol Busquets (19)

When Valverde's asked about La Masia, it's rare that he does not mention Oriol Busquets. The midfielder is highly rated by the coach. 

Labelled the natural heir to his namesake Sergio (they're not related), hos father was also a goalkeeper. Injuries halted his progress over the last year but he's fit again now.