In a gripping turn of events, Barcelona faces a fierce challenge as they brace themselves to confront Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) over the potential signing of Ousmane Dembele, according to an exclusive report from Spain.
Dembele, who was instrumental in Barcelona’s recent 3-0 victory against Real Madrid in El Clasico, could be set to return to his homeland amid rumors of him being considered as Kylian Mbappe’s replacement at Parc des Princes.
Despite the Catalans’ resolute stance on retaining the 26-year-old winger this summer, PSG’s willingness to pay his release fee has complicated the situation. Until 1 August, the release clause stands at €50 million, but after that date, it doubles to a staggering €100 million.
Mundo Deportivo has reported that Barcelona is ready to take drastic measures to contest PSG’s move for Dembele.
“Barcelona are willing to go to war with PSG if the French club ends up paying Ousmane Dembele’s release clause,” the report stated emphatically.
To this end, the Spanish club plans to approach UEFA, urging the governing body to initiate an investigation into PSG’s compliance with Financial Fair Play regulations and scrutinize the sources of their financial resources.
However, it’s important to note that Dembele’s transfer cost is likely to surpass the €50 million release fee, as the player himself must activate the clause. PSG would also have to account for personal income tax and VAT.
Xavi, the manager of Barcelona, met with Dembele in an attempt to persuade him to remain at Camp Nou, but the player’s agent, Moussa Sissoko, has presented a counteroffer seeking a substantial annual wage increase of €6-7 million. Barcelona, in response, has deemed such a raise unfeasible in the current financial climate.
Intriguingly, renowned football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano hinted at PSG’s apprehension that they might fail to finalize the deal for Dembele on 31 July. Should this occur, the transfer’s fate would hang in the balance, with the player’s fee doubling after the deadline.