Barcelona exploring Saudi Arabia, Qatar options to offload out-of-favour academy graduate
Barcelona are actively exploring opportunities in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates as they seek a way out for Ansu Fati ahead of the summer transfer window, claims a report from SPORT.
It is no secret that the club has already made a firm decision regarding the player's future, and it is clear that he is not part of the plans under Hansi Flick.
Despite this, Ansu is expected to continue training with the first team to maintain his fitness and remain in peak condition until the end of the season.
From this summer onwards, the 21-year-old will have to take the necessary step of leaving Barcelona. The club is actively working on a permanent solution, although they are not ruling out a loan move if it makes financial sense.
Their primary objective is to terminate his contract, which runs until 2028, and facilitate a transfer, even if it does not generate substantial income.
The main goal is to free up his considerable salary, which would provide the club with much-needed flexibility within their wage structure during a crucial summer transfer window.
For any move to happen, Ansu will need to be open to the idea of leaving European football.
No club within Europe is willing to take on his current wages, and Barcelona are aware that even securing an arrangement where half of his salary is covered would be extremely difficult.
This is why the focus has shifted to the Middle East, where clubs have the financial capacity to offer him a similar wage to what he earns at Barcelona.
With the assistance of Jorge Mendes, Barcelona have already begun initiating discussions with clubs in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the Emirates.
There is interest from teams in these regions who could match his salary and offer him regular playing time. However, the final decision rests with Ansu, as he must be willing to leave Barcelona permanently.
While there is still interest in Ansu from clubs within Spain, these options do not align with Barcelona's objectives.
Sevilla and Girona had inquired about him during the winter transfer window, and it remains to be seen if they will revisit their interest in the summer.
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