Barcelona have reportedly found a total agreement with Manchester City forward Ferran Torres over a long-term contract ahead of the January transfer window.
The Catalan giants have intensified their pursuit of Ferran Torres in recent days, as manager Xavi Hernandez looks to bolster his forward line in the upcoming window.
The Spanish international has spoken to manager Pep Guardiola about wanting to leave the Etihad Stadium and the Manchester City manager has agreed to his request, provided both the team clubs find an economic agreement.
According to Sport 1 journalist Patrick Berger, Barcelona are still negotiating with Manchester City over the transfer of Ferran Torres, with the Sky Blues demanding €70million for their star attacker. Contacts will continue between all the relevant parties, assisted by the Spanish international’s determination to move to Camp Nou.
Torres, 21, has had success at Manchester City under Pep Guardiola, winning the Premier League title and the EFL Cup in his debut season in English football. However, as with most Manchester City players, regular playing time isn’t guaranteed, as Guardiola likes to make full use of his squad throughout the season.
Ferran Torres to Barcelona – How will he fit in under Xavi?
Barcelona have witnessed their form improve in recent weeks, and are currently in a six-game unbeaten run across all competitions. Xavi Hernandez is slowly taking a grip over his squad, although he wants to make a couple of additions in the winter market.
With Sergio Aguero ruled out for the foreseeable future with a heart problem, Philippe Coutinho struggling to stake his place in the side and the likes of Ansu Fati and Martin Braithwaite still out injured, Xavi is eyeing attacking reinforcements to boost his squad for the second half of the season.
The Catalan club are continuing to push for Ferran Torres’ arrival in the New Year, as Xavi and co. remain still some way off the pace in the title race, however.
The Blaugrana’s interest in Torres makes sense. Torres is regarded as one of the best attacking young talents in Europe. The 21-year-old’s pace out wide, combined with his dribbling skills, passing ability and vision, makes him an asset for his team. He is technically sound and tactically versatile, which should tune in well with Xavi’s philosophy at Camp Nou.
Torres could thus start off the right at Barcelona, and the fact that he can operate on the other flank as well as through the middle as a false nine makes him an even more appealing option for Xavi.
The ex-Valencia man would be an instant upgrade on Braithwaite, whilst providing back-up for Memphis Depay.
At 21, Torres has a long way to go in his career. Under the leadership of Xavi, the Spanish attacker will certainly have an excellent opportunity to unlock his true potential at Camp Nou.