I think that is not true: Pep is a fanatical perfectionist and the Cheats can basically buy whoever they want.I still think Pep sometimes signs players to stop teams around him strengthening, Alvarez was a classic example. Grealish too.. and I’d even go as far as Haaland,
some end up forcing their way into the team, but I don’t think he really has a plan for everyone he signs
Alvarez and Grealish were backup and potential, Haaland a generational player you build around.