In an ambitious move, Real Betis are eyeing a strategic raid on the roster of FC Barcelona, targeting not just one player but potentially up to five talented youngsters as per a report from Mundo Deportivo.
The intriguing aspect of this pursuit lies in the favorable relationship between Ramon Planes and Barcelona, Verdiblancos’s current sporting director who previously worked at the Catalan club. This connection may prove instrumental in facilitating the negotiations, albeit with varying degrees of feasibility for each potential transfer.
Álex Collado
The most advanced discussions revolve around Álex Collado, a promising attacking midfielder hailing from La Masia. Collado is currently negotiating an amicable departure from Barcelona, where he finds himself surplus to requirements.
The proposed plan involves Collado leaving on a free transfer, while Blaugranes retain a percentage of any future sale. Although progress had initially accelerated, multiple sources indicate that an immediate deal is unlikely.
Arnau Tenas
Another target on Betis’ radar is Arnau Tenas, who until June 30th served as the third-choice goalkeeper for Barcelona’s first team and captained Barça Atlètic. The Betis hierarchy has already reached out to Tenas’ representative, Iván de la Peña, expressing a keen interest in securing the young shot-stopper.
However, Tenas, who is currently focused on the U21 European Championship, where he will contest the final against England on Saturday, has received alternative proposals. Interestingly, the Catalan giants are also considering the option of reclaiming Tenas.
Pablo Torre
Pablo Torre is the third player that Real Betis has identified as a potential addition. Torre, a 20-year-old attacking midfielder, is open to a loan move after mutually agreeing with the Blaugrana higher-ups and coach Xavi Hernández.
The aim is to provide Torre with valuable playing time and experience in La Liga. Betis views Torre as an excellent fit for their style of play and has joined the list of interested suitors.
However, the young midfielder has attracted attention from several other clubs, including Rafael Benítez’s Celta Vigo, Villarreal, Real Sociedad, and Valencia, with whom Barcelona have already initiated negotiations.
Torre intends to make a well-considered decision and plans to report to Ciutat Esportiva on the 10th of July to commence pre-season training under Xavi. Additionally, there is even speculation about his potential inclusion in the team’s upcoming tour.
Nico and Abde
Betis have also made early moves to secure the services of Nico González and Abde as well. Initially, the 21-year-old midfielder seemed destined for a loan move, although his future hinges on the squad’s final composition.
For now, the Catalans expect Nico to be present for the start of pre-season training on the 10th. The talented youngster has expressed a genuine interest in joining another side to further his development and he has multiple options on the table.
Securing Abde on loan at Betis appears to be a more challenging proposition, as Xavi ultimately holds the final say. The Moroccan winger remains a part of Xavi’s plans, especially if no other attacking reinforcements materialize.
A potential departure would only be considered if an irresistible transfer offer is received. Abde enjoys a strong rapport with Planes, as he was previously signed by him for Barcelona. However, Abde’s primary objective is to convince the coaching staff at Barcelona to retain him for the upcoming season.
Real Betis’ ambitious pursuit of Barcelona’s talented players underscores the ongoing transfer activity between the two clubs. With Betis leveraging the relationship of Ramon Planes with Barcelona and the allure of their style of play, it remains to be seen which players will ultimately make the switch to the Seville-based club.
