Big Barça clear-out

By David Lee Wheatley

Who's heading for the exit door?

Just two points away from mathematically guaranteeing the title in La Liga, Barcelona will be looking to the summer already trying to figure out a strategy that'll allow them to regain their European superiority.

There's question marks surrounding the head coach Tito Vilanova's future in the role, while many 'star' players are said to be on the chopping block.

There have been far too many players that have under-performed this campaign, particularly in the Champions League, and it's unlikely Barça will be willing to rely on many of them for 2013/14.

David Villa, formerly the star striker in the Blaugrana ranks, has struggled to find form following serious injury and he appears most likely to be on his way out. Villa used to be relied upon to score the goals when Messi wasn't or indeed to supplement the little Argentine's exploits, but he's lost that scoring touch while also he seems to have dropped a yard of pace.

Eric Abidal, inspirational for his comeback from a liver transplant, could be set for a move back to France, with Barça looking at other possibilities at left-back.

Alexis Sanchez, signed for a lot of money from Serie A, is a much-maligned figure at Camp Nou these days and his poor performances have led to large-scale criticism from the fans. It's highly likely that the Catalan club will cut it's losses and let the Chilean move on.

Fabrègas has seen the full spectrum from glorious love on his arrival to deep-rooted disdain from the fans since his return to Barcelona from Arsenal. Successful initially, Cesc has seen his stock fall dramatically, with a lot members blaming him for many of the team's problems this season. It's been a harsh reality for the midfielder to face up to after finally making his homecoming to the club he loves. Speculation is rife that a move back to London could be in the offing soon.

It's sure to be a summer of upheaval for the Spanish league leaders and don't be surprised to see changes at the very top of the coaching hierarchy, as well as within the playing roster.

Twitter: @davewh1980