Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Catalans suffer Jonathan David blow, club eyeing Ajax ace, and more - November 24, 2024
Barcelona stumbled to a 2-2 draw against Celta Vigo on Saturday (November 23) in LaLiga. Goals from Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski sent the Catalans 2-0 up before the visitors scored two late goals to steal a point.
Meanwhile, the Catalans have suffered a setback in their efforts to sign Jonathan David next summer. Elsewhere, the Spanish giants are interested in a Dutch full-back who plays for Ajax.
On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from November 24, 2024.
Barcelona suffer Jonathan David blow
Barcelona have suffered a setback in their plans to take Jonathan David to Camp Nou next summer. According to SPORT, signing David could cost around €80m, which could be out of the Catalans' budget.
The Canadian striker's contract with Lille is set to run out at the end of this season and he hasn't agreed to an extension yet. The LaLiga giants are keeping a close eye on the situation as they lay down succession plans for Robert Lewandowski.
The Polish striker is already on the wrong side of 30 but has shown no signs of slowing down. Lewandowski has 20 goals and two assists from 18 games across competitions for Barcelona this season.
However, he will turn 37 next August and the club have identified David as a possible long-term replacement. The 24-year-old has been outstanding for Lille over the years and has 13 goals and two assists from 19 games this season.
The chance to sign him on a Bosman move next summer is too good for the Catalans to turn down. However, David reportedly wants a four-year deal with a significant signing-on fee and transfer bonus. The LaLiga giants consider this manageable, though it is a little higher than their allotted budget.
Catalans eyeing Devyne Rensch
Barcelona have set their sights on Devyne Rensch, according to SPORT. The Dutch right-back has caught the eye with Ajax of late, registering one goal and one assist from 17 games across competitions.
Hansi Flick has reportedly identified the right-back position as an area that needs attention in 2025. The German manager wants to add more competition for Jules Kounde in his squad, and Rensch has emerged as an option.
The 21-year-old's arrival could also help the Frenchman revert to his preferred center-back position. Rensch is in the final year of his contract with Ajax and hasn't agreed to a new deal yet. As such, a move could also be financially viable for the Catalans.
Sevilla retain Ansu Fati interest
Sevilla remain interested in Ansu Fati, according to Diario SPORT. The Spanish forward is a forgotten man at Barcelona and is a long way down the pecking order under Hansi Flick.
Fati has registered seven appearances across competitions for the Catalans this season, only one of which has been a start. The player's fitness woes have been well documented and he is currently out with a muscle injury.
Barcelona are ready to consider his departure in January and Sevilla are planning to offer the player a chance to redeem his career. However, a deal will be complicated as the Andalusian club cannot afford Fati's current wages. A loan move could be a solution, although much will depend on the player.