According to Spanish news outlet Mundo Deportivo, Manchester City forward Ferran Torres has informed manager Pep Guardiola about his desire to join Barcelona. And Pep Guardiola in turn has responded by agreeing to an exit, provided an ‘economic agreement’ can be reached between Barcelona and Manchester City.
The agent of Ferran Torres, 21, was at Barcelona’s offices last Tuesday to push through a move to Camp Nou, with the director of football Mateu Alemany travelling to Manchester earlier this week, reports Mundo Deportivo.
Barcelona have been linked with a host of names across Europe in recent weeks, with new boss Xavi Hernandez keen to strengthen his forward line in January.
Sergio Aguero arrived at the Blaugrana on a free transfer from Manchester City in the summer but has managed only four appearances due to injury problems. And last month, the Argentinean suffered chest pains in the game against Alaves and was brought off the pitch, with the latest reports suggesting he could be on the verge of hanging up his boots.
Manchester City star Raheem Sterling has fallen on the radar of the Catalan giants, with the Englishman’s future plunged into doubt following a lack of regular opportunities.
However, while the Sky Blues aren’t interested in loaning out Sterling, Barcelona have switched their attention towards signing Ferran Torres. It is claimed that both the clubs are now trying to find a solution ahead of the January transfer window after the Spanish international wants a move back to his country to join the Catalan club, the report adds.
Currently, Torres is recovering from a metatarsal injury sustained while on international duty with the Spanish national team in October. It actually remains to be seen when he returns to full fitness; however, the 21-year-old is expected to be back in action during Christmas.
Nonetheless, Torres will hope that Barcelona completes a deal in January, but that could depend upon the demands of Manchester City given the Spanish club’s financial problems, at least until a few players are sold.