Barcelona are poised to make a bold move for a Villarreal attacker as the summer transfer window nears its close.
The Catalan giants, renowned for their keen eye on emerging talent, are reportedly ready to trigger a modest €5 million release clause to secure a promising young forward.
This strategic acquisition aligns with Barcelona’s ongoing efforts to invest in the next generation, especially as they navigate Financial Fair Play constraints and plan for a post-Lewandowski era.
The player in question is Etta Eyong, a 21-year-old Cameroonian striker who has impressed at Villarreal.
According to Fichajes, Barcelona are seriously considering activating Eyong’s €5 million release clause, viewing him as a low-risk, high-reward investment for the future.
Rather than integrating him immediately into Hansi Flick’s first team, the plan is to loan Eyong to Real Betis for the 2025/26 season.
This move would ensure the young forward gains valuable La Liga experience under Manuel Pellegrini, a coach known for nurturing talent, while Barcelona monitors his development.
Eyong’s profile as a modern striker—combining pace, power, and sharp finishing—has caught the attention of Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, who has reportedly tracked his progress for some time.
His recent goal in Villarreal’s La Liga opener against Real Oviedo further highlighted his potential.
The proposed deal, with an agreement reportedly in place between Barcelona and Villarreal, hinges only on finalizing the financial transaction.
With Lewandowski’s career winding down, Barcelona’s pursuit of Eyong reflects their forward-thinking approach to squad planning.
The €5 million release clause represents a bargain for a player with such promise, but the club must act swiftly to fend off interest from other European sides.
If completed, this transfer could prove a masterstroke, with Eyong potentially returning to Camp Nou as a polished star after his loan spell.
The coming days will reveal whether Barcelona seals this strategic coup.
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