Barcelona and PSG will face off on the field twice over the next month in the quarterfinals of the UEFA Champions League.
Only one of the two European giants can make it to the next stage, and the Catalans’ recent resurgence in form only makes the tie closer.
The two clubs, however, are also involved in several tussles off the field. According to reports from SPORT, the Parisiens have their eyes on up to five Catalan players as targets for the summer.
Paris Saint-Germain have shown a particular interest in signing the Blaugranas’ young defender Hector Fort who has made quite the impression with the first team.
As a player capable of playing on both extremes of defence and even as a centre-back, Barcelona value him for his versatility and age.
In a meeting two weeks ago, they made it clear to PSG that they are not willing to let go of the youngster.
Apart from the La Masia defender, PSG also have their eyes on the two crown jewels of the academy, Pau Cubarsi and Lamine Yamal. The duo, however, will not be sold under any circumstances and have been granted the ‘untouchable’ status. In the same meeting where Barcelona and PSG discussed the name of Hector Fort, the topic of Jules Kounde’s future also popped up.
In this case, however, Barça opened the door to negotiate the Frenchman’s future with PSG should an appropriate offer arrive.
The Azulgranas signed the centre-back for €50 million plus another €12.5 million in variables just in 2022, and the amortisation of his signing is still under 50%.
Selling him at this stage will improve the team’s financial fair play and help Barcelona edge closer to the 1:1 rule.
The final player whom Luis Enrique’s side are eyeing is Barcelona’s Dutch midfield sensation Frenkie de Jong.
While he is currently a vital part of the team, the administration does not rule out a sale should a tempting offer arrive.
