A Saudi club has secured a deal with a key Barcelona board member, marking a significant shift in the club’s leadership.
The transfer market has been buzzing with player rumors, but this development shifts the focus to the boardroom, where a high-profile departure is imminent.
The move comes as Saudi clubs continue their aggressive push to elevate their global football presence, not only through player acquisitions but also by targeting seasoned executives to bolster their organizational structures.
This strategic acquisition underscores the growing influence of Saudi Arabia in the football world.
The executive in question is Rafa Yuste, Barcelona’s sporting vice president, who is reportedly in advanced negotiations to become the new CEO of Al-Nassr, a prominent Saudi Professional League club.
According to reports from Diario Sport, Yuste has already met with Al-Nassr representatives to finalize terms, with a pre-agreement in place.
Yuste, a trusted ally of Barcelona president Joan Laporta, has been instrumental in the club’s sporting decisions, including player negotiations and strategic planning.
His potential departure is a significant blow to Laporta’s project, given Yuste’s extensive experience and network within football.
Al-Nassr’s offer, which includes substantial financial incentives and full executive control, is described as nearly impossible to refuse, especially since Yuste does not receive a salary at Barcelona.
To prepare for this transition, Barcelona has identified Joan Soler as the leading candidate to replace Yuste as sporting vice-president.
Soler, who oversees youth football, has been part of the club’s structure and is well-positioned to step into the role, despite a brief rift with Laporta last season.
The club is bracing for change as Yuste prepares to travel to Saudi Arabia for further discussions, opting not to join Barcelona’s upcoming pre-season tour in Asia.
This move highlights the increasing allure of Saudi Arabia’s football project, which continues to attract top talent and executives alike, reshaping the global football landscape
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