FC Barcelona have a formidable team for now, but as the full squad is still somewhat small and some of the players are already well-advanced in their years, the Catalans are already looking for young players to further reinforce the team with an eye on the future.
One of the players whom Barcelona are monitoring with interest in this regard is one of their former youth teamers, Juan Miranda. The youngster is currently playing for Real Betis, but his future is highly uncertain for now.
Juan Miranda’s contract ending
Miranda grew and developed at FC Barcelona before joining Real Betis as a free agent in 2021. The Catalans still own 50% of the player’s rights, but his contract at Real Betis is going to end at the end of this season, and if Real Betis lose him for free, Barcelona would also lose this 50% right on the player. Thus, Barcelona are hoping that Miranda can renew with Real Betis.
However, according to SPORT, negotiations between these two parties are not going well, and as Miranda looks likely to fulfill his contract at Real Betis, AC Milan, and Barcelona are going to battle it out for the youngster. In fact, reports from Italy indicate that both these clubs have already contacted the youngster’s entourage.
Everything depends on Miranda
The most favorable scenario for Barcelona remains the one in which Miranda renews with Real Betis. If such a renewal does not take place, the Catalans will go ahead to sign him as a free agent. However, everything will depend on the player’s own choice as he will face tough competition both in AC Milan and Barcelona.
At Real Betis, Miranda has emerged as one of the most promising fullbacks. He values his association with the Verdiblancos but believes it is time for him to look for a bigger challenge. Barcelona rate him highly and can get him especially if Marcos Alonso does not renew with the club.
However, Miranda is not the only one on Barcelona’s list, as the Catalans are also monitoring Ian Maatsen from Chelsea, who also has not renewed his contract with the London club. The Dutchman is also rated highly at Barcelona, but a final decision has not yet been made.
