Saul Niguez proud of Barcelona interest | SL
The Rojiblancos’ Saul Niguez has risen to prominence with some eye-catching displays in the UEFA Champions League in the past two seasons.
“It’s always positive that teams show interest in you,” Saul told AS when asked about the Blaugrana’s interest. But I want to do good things at Atletico and that’s the reason for my renewal. The idea is to grow with Atletico. When it looks like I’m stuck or I need a change, then we can talk about it.”. More here.
Dembele, a Blaugrana from La Madeleine | FC Barcelona
They were difficult days on the streets of Madeleine, the same streets where Ousmane Dembélé began kicking a ball. His mother, Fatimata, of Mauritanian blood, had settled in the area with Barça’s new player and his siblings: another boy and two girls. “Growing up in a neighbourhood like that, it’s hard. You need character and it forces you to win respect,” Mikael Silvestre confirmed to L’Équipe, the former player influential in taking Dembélé to Rennes. More here.
Italian suitors line up for Deulofeu | Marca
According to a report in La Gazzetta dello Sport, several Italian sides are seriously considering a move for Deulofeu, who is valued at 20 million euros.
The publication believes Inter have the best chance of convincing the former AC Milan winger to return to Serie A, although Roma and Napoli are also possibilities. However, it is unclear as yet if an exit would be on a permanent deal or if the Spain international would leave on loan for the remainder of the campaign. More here.
Barcelona Mid-Season Review | The Barcelona Podcast
Francesc and Dan focus on analysing the 2017/18 season so far, breaking down their most (and least!) favourite moments since Valverde’s arrival in the summer. Francesc is then joined by Jordi Getman and Galo Ortiz from Penya FC Barcelona NYC to discuss their incredible work to promote Barca’s greatness and vision in New York City. Your hosts close the show with their traditional Ronda of Quick-Fire Listener Questions.
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Five defensive options for Barcelona in the January transfer window | Barca Blaugranes
Yerry Mina looks the most likely option this January as Barca already have an option to sign him and are reportedly looking to bring that forward.
There are drawbacks of course, they will likely have to pay extra to bring him in now, and he may find it even harder to acclimatise to a new club, country and league halfway through the season. More here.
Ernesto Valverde: Samuel Umtiti is happy at Barcelona | Sport
Umtiti’s release clause is 60 million euros and L’Equipe reported it’s ‘feasible’ that City will pay that for the impressive French centre-back.
“I don’t have to worry about what other clubs could do,” Valverde said. “Umtiti is a great player and I hope we can continue to enjoy him here for many more years.” More here.
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