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October 12, 2024
Barcelona’s latest financial accounts, released last week, have shed light on an unnamed signing that had been quietly included in the club’s budget. According to Diario Sport, 17-year-old Malian winger Ibrahim Diarra is the player in question.
During a trial period in Barcelona’s youth system earlier this year, Diarra made a strong impression. Known for his standout performances at the U17 World Cup, the talented young winger is currently with African Foot, a football academy in Mali. However, Diarra’s time at the academy is ending, as the club has already confirmed that an agreement is in place for his future transfer to Barcelona.
Although Barcelona has not officially commented on the deal, this is reportedly due to Diarra’s being under 18. It is understood that once he turns 18 in December, the transfer will be formalized, and Diarra will return to Barcelona to be unveiled as the club’s newest signing.
Barcelona’s financial records further confirm the deal. According to Sport, the club’s accounts mention a short-term debt of €190,000 owed to CPF African Foot, alongside over €1.5 million earmarked for Diarra, amounting to a total transfer fee of around €1.7 million.
Barcelona and Real Madrid are intensifying their interest in rising talent Junior Kroupi, who is currently showcasing his abilities at Lorient. According to Diario Sport, the two La Liga giants have identified the 18-year-old forward as a potential future signing, with his impressive form making waves across Europe.
Kroupi, who had flown somewhat under the radar, has exploded onto the scene in Ligue 2 this season. The young striker has already tallied four goals in just eight appearances, displaying maturity and finishing prowess well beyond his years. His pace, technical skill, and composure in front of goal have made him one of the standout performers in French football.
As a result, top clubs from across the continent have taken notice, and none more so than Barcelona and Real Madrid. Both clubs closely monitor his progress as they seek to bolster their future attacking options with one of France’s brightest prospects. The battle between these two Spanish heavyweights to secure Kroupi’s signature could add another chapter to their storied rivalry, and it underscores just how high his potential ceiling is in the world of football.
Barcelona is reportedly keeping a close watch on Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey as they explore potential signings for the summer of 2025. According to Relevo, the Ghanaian international has emerged as an attractive market opportunity for the Blaugrana, given his skill set and experience in high-pressure situations.
Despite being a crucial part of Mikel Arteta’s midfield setup at Arsenal, Partey’s current contract expires next summer, and negotiations for an extension have yet to gain traction. This situation positions the 31-year-old to potentially leave the Emirates on a free transfer, a scenario that Barcelona is keen to capitalize on, especially considering their ongoing financial constraints.
With these financial challenges, including a significant short-term debt of € 190,000 owed to CPF African Foot, looming over the club, the Catalan giants actively seek cost-effective reinforcements to bolster their squad for future campaigns. Deco and the Barcelona management see Partey, a former Atlético Madrid player, as a viable option to strengthen their midfield without the burden of a hefty transfer fee. As the summer transfer window approaches, Barcelona’s interest in the experienced midfielder could intensify, potentially leading to a significant move that could reshape their midfield dynamics and contribute to their aspirations of returning to the top of European football.
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