Barcelona Ventures into Middle East for Ansu Fati’s Transfer Options

Barcelona is exploring transfer options for Ansu Fati in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and UAE as he is not part of coach Hansi Flick’s plans. The club aims to terminate his contract, which runs until 2028, to alleviate his salary. A decision from Fati is essential as he must be open to leaving European football. Meanwhile, interest from Spanish clubs does not align with Barcelona’s goals.

FC Barcelona is actively seeking opportunities in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates to facilitate the exit of Ansu Fati, a young academy graduate whose future at the club appears uncertain. Reports indicate that the club has decisively excluded him from their plans under coach Hansi Flick, necessitating a departure ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window. Despite this situation, Fati will continue to train with the first team to maintain his fitness until the season concludes.

As of this summer, the 21-year-old must take necessary steps to leave Barcelona. The club is exploring permanent exit strategies for him while remaining open to a potential loan arrangement, provided it makes financial sense. Their primary aim is to terminate Fati’s contract, which extends until 2028, facilitating a transfer even if it does not yield substantial financial returns.

A significant consideration for Barcelona is to alleviate Fati’s substantial salary, which will grant the club increased flexibility within their wage framework during a critical summer transfer period. However, Fati must be receptive to the idea of leaving European football, as no club in Europe is willing to accommodate his current salary demands, complicating potential moves even where a salary-sharing arrangement is proposed.

Barcelona has initiated discussions with clubs in the Middle East through the assistance of agent Jorge Mendes. Interest has emerged from several teams in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the Emirates, which could match Fati’s existing salary while offering regular playing opportunities. Nonetheless, the final decision regarding his potential transfer rests with Fati, who must be amenable to a permanent exit from Barcelona.

While there remains interest from domestic clubs such as Sevilla and Girona regarding Fati, these options are not aligned with Barcelona’s strategic goals. Following inquiries during the winter transfer window, it remains to be seen whether these clubs will renew their interest in the summer.

In summary, FC Barcelona is prioritizing the departure of Ansu Fati, focusing on options in the Middle East to alleviate his substantial salary. The club is exploring permanent transfers and is open to loan deals that align financially. However, Fati’s willingness to leave Europe will be critical in determining the outcome of this situation, with domestic interest unlikely to fit the club’s objectives.

Original Source: barcauniversal.com