Real Betis nears deal for Barcelona defender

Barcelona defender nears Real Betis move with the Betis board accelerating negotiations and the deal looking increasingly likely.

With European qualification still within reach, the Andalusian club know they must add youth, energy, and versatility at the back if it is to compete on multiple fronts.

Their recruitment team has turned its focus towards one of the most talked-about young defenders emerging from Spain this season, a player currently making waves in Barcelona’s setup.

That player is Xavi Espart, the 18-year-old right-back from Barcelona who has quickly gone from La Masia prospect to first-team option under Hansi Flick.

According to reports relayed by Fichajes, Real Betis have identified Espart as a priority target to strengthen their defence and add competition on the flanks.

The teenager has impressed in limited minutes, notably in the Champions League against Newcastle and in a full outing versus Sevilla, where his maturity and composure on the ball caught the eye of scouts and coaches alike.

Real Betis views Espart as a signing who can boost both defensive solidity and attacking projection from the back, complementing the experience of Hector Bellerin and the qualities of Ángel Ortiz.

His profile, capable of operating as a traditional right-back and contributing in more advanced areas, fits Betis’ desire for dynamic full-backs who can influence games in possession.

For the player, the prospect of joining a project that offers regular minutes and European exposure is seen as an important step in his development, even as Barcelona values him highly.

Barcelona has him under contract until 2028 and considers him one of La Masia’s most promising defensive talents, which means any negotiation will be complex and likely expensive.

Even so, Betis are expected to keep pushing in the coming months, sensing an opportunity to land one of Spanish football’s standout young defenders for the next phase of their project.