Barcelona's performance in the last 3 seasons is very weak. Barcelona's performance has deteriorated since Koeman became Barcelona's coach. Although Xavi has been able to stabilize the team, he has not yet been able to form a completely strong team. Barcelona need more experienced players in defense. At the same time now Barcelona needs experienced striker. If Lewandowski joins Barcelona, I think Barcelona will be stronger. Next season, the title fight between Barcelona and Real Madrid will intensify.
Barcelona first of all need to solve their financial problems, at the moment they cannot afford to buy strong players, they are mainly hoping to sign free agents. Despite the fact that Real Madrid could not sign Mbappe, other strengthening of the squad will be made, and given the fact that Real Madrid is doing well with the budget, there is no need to think about any serious competition next season. Real will win La Liga again by a large margin.
There will still be competition but it is indeed quite small right now.
I quite agree with what you said considering that currently Barcelona is still lacking and is still struggling financially. Their forest is currently still unresolved and indeed one way is to find players with the lowest possible cost and free transfer players are still the first target now.
Madrid's finances are currently very safe, especially with them winning in La Liga and UCL how much bonus they have now and of course this will make it easier for them for next season