With the summer transfer market in full flow, FC Barcelona still have to resolve the future of some of their squad members. In addition to generating funds through sales and reducing their wage bill, FC Barcelona are also looking for loan opportunities for some of their players to help their future development.
One such youngster whom the Catalan club believes would benefit greatly from a loan is the midfielder, Nico. The player spent the last season on loan as well, but this stint was not very helpful for his development as the club was in turmoil, and the young midfielder also suffered an injury in the middle of the season.
According to SPORT, the club has decided to send Nico on loan, and the Portuguese side Porto is currently the most advanced in negotiations for him. Porto want to strengthen their midfield and are already in contact with Nico’s agent, Jorge Mendes.
However, Nico is not the only midfielder that the Portuguese club is considering signing this summer, as they also have Alan Varela in their sights. Varela currently plays for the Argentine club Boca Juniors and has a release clause of $15 million. Porto are willing to offer $9 million for 90% of Varela’s rights.
However, higher-ups at Porto prioritize a move for Nico rather than buying Varela permanently and Nico’s availability on loan also makes him a tempting target for the Portuguese club. The Catalan giants are also ready to send Nico on loan at Porto and believe this will be a good learning opportunity for the player.
Both Barcelona and Porto want to conclude an operation for the midfielder as soon as possible. However, Porto will first have to make a decision on which of the two players to sign but prefer Nico more than Varela.
