Bartomeu rules out January signings to replace Dembele

Josep Maria Bartomeu made an appearance on 'El Rondo', a program in which they talk over the most important day-to-day issues concerning Barcelona and he admitted his surprise at the extent of the injury of the young Frenchman, the club's star signing of the summer.

Despite the setback, the president of the Catalan club doesn't see any reason why they must delve into the January transfer window.

"There is nothing planned. We need to invest more in La Masia and ensure that FIFA and UEFA continue to be tough on the [Financial Fair Play] regulations. This is a request from the majority of European clubs," said Bartomeu.

He said that "the doctors' are predicting around a four month injury lay-off," revealing a conversation he had with the former Dortmund winger: "I spoke with Dembele and he is a little bit downhearted because he was so excited when he joined, but at the same time he trusts the club's doctors. He his optimistic that when he returns he will do so with a smile."