Joan Laporta says Ferran Torres signing proves Barcelona are 'leaders' again

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has claimed the club's signing of Ferran Torres proves they are once again a "leader" in the transfer market.

Barça have endured a nightmarish few years, characterised by underperformance on the pitch and a host of crises away from the field.

Financially the club is still in a perilous position, despite the departures of the high-earning Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Antoine Griezmann, as well as additional pay cuts agreed with other squad members.

This is evidenced by Barcelona not being able to register Torres until the wage budget is balanced by several outgoings.

Despite this, Laporta insisted that the transfer was good news for the club.

"The technical department are working hard to built a great team. Everything is possible if you do things right," he said at the unveiling of Barça's newest signing.

"And we are doing that, so I am sure it will go well. We are back, the proof is Ferran.

"This shows that Barça are still a leader - our resurgence is a reality and the market has realised that."

Laporta continued to lavish praise on Torres during his unveiling, saying: "You are young but you already have plenty of experience.

"We knew about Ferran's situation and we were very pleased that he wanted to come to Barça so much. Furthermore, we have a good relationship with those in charge at Manchester City."

Provided they can get him registered for La Liga action, Torres' arrival at Camp Nou will be a significant boost for Xavi's side. Barça's head coach has made no secret of his desire to strengthen up front as he has been forced to turn to the B team to fill up the starting XI in recent times.

Even when Barcelona were nearer full strength they struggled to score, netting just twice in the Champions League group stages this season.

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