The transfer policy for FC Barcelona in today’s market is quite different from what it used to be. Previously known for having the ability to enter the market and outbid almost anyone, the current scenario is much different. Now, Barcelona can no longer afford to splurge as they did during the previous president’s tenure.
With complications involving financial fair play almost always at Barça’s throat now, the club can only make very strategic signings. However, that is why they have shifted their attention towards scouting promising talents. In this way, Barça can spend a small amount to recruit a possible future star.
As such, they have kept their eyes open in the youth market. One of their best finds hails from Serbia, and has been linked to the club for some time now. Matija Popovic, a former forward for Partizan Belgrade, is aged just 17 and was among Barça’s list of potential stars to pursue.
However, as reported by Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona could see him slip away from their fingers. As it stands, the player is currently without a club after his contract with his former side expired in January. With contract negotiations having failed, he is now a free agent for any team to pursue.
As per MD, however, it is not Barcelona who are in the pole position for his signature. Instead, Bavarian giants Bayern Munich seem to have taken the lead and have advanced their contacts with the player’s entourage.
Bayern have already also sent a formal proposal to the player. This has allowed the Bavarians to edge past AC Milan, Napoli, Porto, and other European greats who were also invested in the player. For Barcelona, however, it does not look too positive either.
At this rate, the Catalan giants could see yet another great market opportunity slip through their fingers. With little to no spending ability offered to Barcelona otherwise, this could be a chance that they regret later on. In case they still believe the Serbian to be worth it, Barça would be wise to move soon.
