Barcelona Close To Reaching Agreement With €50m Liverpool Target

Barcelona are close to reaching an “agreement in principle” with Liverpool target Gavi, according to Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo.

The 17-year-old has been locked in contract negotiations with the Spanish giants for months. His current deal contains a €50 million release clause which has sparked interest from a host of clubs in Europe.

He emerged as a target for Liverpool, with Jurgen Klopp eager to bolster his midfield options this summer. It’s believed that the Merseyside club were willing to trigger the wonderkid’s release clause, which would have enabled talks to commence between Liverpool and the player’s representatives.

However, it now appears that there has been a breakthrough in negotiations between Gavi and Barca, and that a new contract is on the verge of being signed. 

It’s understood that the new deal will be a long-term commitment, although the duration is not yet known. His current deal is set to expire next summer.

This essentially puts an end to Liverpool’s hopes of acquiring the Spaniard.

Klopp’s side may now look at alternatives to him, including Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham, as they look to strengthen in the midfield department.

Gavi made his breakout season in 21/22 under new boss Xavi, making 47 appearances in all competitions and scoring two goals.

The Spanish international is a product of La Masia, Barcelona’s prestigious academy, and has now made seven caps for the senior national team before the age of 18.

Klopp was said to be impressed by Gavi’s technical security and the ball progression he offers. The German boss was also said to be enticed by the player’s tenacious style and ability to press, an essential part of the system Klopp implements.

These are attributes the North West club will certainly look for in any new recruits as they remain in the market for a number 8.