Reports: Barcelona to sign PSG's Marco Verratti in 2016
Italian youngster Marco Verratti is currently being targeted by Spanish champions Barcelona who wish to sign him at the end of their transfer ban in 2016. Although Barcelona has shown interest in the player, he emphasized the fact that he was content with his position in Paris Saint-Germain and will not be looking to leave in the near future.
Barcelona who are currently undergoing a transfer ban, have been following the Italian for quite a while. Although PSG have stated that Verratti is not for sale, sources from the French capital state that the club might be willing to let the player go if the bid is north of €50 million. Barcelona coach Luis Enrique who is an admirer of the Italian youngster’s playing style said, "I have always liked Marco's playing style. He is a player who could fit in at Barcelona."
With the departure of Xavi and Iniesta’s aging, the Catalans do need a new young midfielder who will help the team thrive for years to come, and they have their man in 22-year old Verratti.
The admiration is not only one-directional though, Verratti also has revealed his fascination with the Spanish giants.
"Barcelona are one of the strongest clubs in the world and have been so for a long time," he said eagerly.
"They are a great team but I am happy at PSG at the moment. But it is always flattering for a player when such a big club is interested in you. It is up to the people at Barcelona to decide [if I would fit in] but it is true that I like their style."
Verratti: England, Spain, and Italy are all options
Several clubs all over Europe are keen in signing the player, with Premier League side Arsenal rumored to be leading the race. In an interview with Goal, when asked about a possible move to the Premier League he had the following to say: "You never know what the future brings, I am fine where I am now and I am not thinking about a transfer.
"I will consider my options the day I no longer feel good at PSG or when the club wants to sell me but England, Spain and Italy are all options. What matters most is the project.”
Verratti is also being targeted by Barcelona’s league rivals Real Madrid, who are willing to spend big to obtain his signature.