Earlier today, reports emerged claiming that Barcelona were pressing ahead with their pursuit of Real Valladolid right-back Ivan Fresneda.
It was suggested that the La Liga champions had tabled an offer worth €8 million plus variables for the 18-year-old, while the possibility of including Estanis Pedrola in the deal was also on the table.
Fresneda enjoyed a solid debut campaign in La Liga in 2022/23 despite Valladolid’s relegation and has attracted interest from several clubs across Europe.
But, the teenager is understood to prefer a transfer to Barcelona and has already rejected offers from elsewhere and things appeared to be moving in the right direction.
Xavi still eager to sign Joao Cancelo
However, manager Xavi Hernandez still remains unconvinced about Fresneda and continues to prioritise a move for Joao Cancelo of Manchester City instead, reports Javi Miguel.
And, as such, the Barcelona manager has asked the club to stall their operation for the 18-year-old as he wants to see out how Ousmane Dembele’s exit saga pans out and whether it leaves room for the club to sign Cancelo instead.
As is well-publicised by now, Dembele seems to be headed for PSG, but there is still a lack of clarity about how the operation will take place.
The Ligue 1 champions could activate his €50 million release clause, which expires at midnight today, although recent reports suggest that the two clubs will negotiate a fee for him.
In such a case, the deal could be completed for €40-50 million and free up €25 million for Financial Fair Play.
As such, Xavi remains keen on seeing how the thing plays out and whether there are any chances that the club can bring in Cancelo this summer.
The 29-year-old’s permanent signing is pretty much ruled out while a loan move could also cost around €20 million in loan fees and salary.
In case there is no room for the Portuguese international despite Dembele’s departure, Xavi will give the green light to move for Fresneda instead.
