Barcelona found an alternative option for Joao Cancelo. Pablo Maffeo is being considered by Barcelona as a possible replacement for Joao Cancelo, according to ESport3. This summer, Barca is looking to add a new right-back.
Cancelo is one of the club’s top targets for the summer, but it won’t be cheap to get him in from Manchester City. Barca won’t be able to spend much on transfers due to their terrible financial state.
The Blaugrana now has Pablo Maffeo as a viable alternative since Cancelo is not a very practical option. He represents RCD Mallorca, a La Liga team.
The 26-year-old played in 37 games last season across all competitions, scoring two goals and dishing out three assists. Aside from Manchester City, Maffeo has also suited up for teams like Girona, Huesca, and VFB Stuttgart.
A €30 million release provision exists in Maffeo’s contract. According to the aforementioned source, Mallorca would be willing to let him go for a €10 million sum in return for a player.
In addition to Barcelona, Sevilla is allegedly interested in signing Maffeo and is in talks with Mallorca to do so.
Joining Barcelona is Inigo Martinez:
Inigo Martinez has successfully transferred to Barcelona from Athletic Bilbao. Martinez has played in 177 games for Bilbao across all competitions, giving him substantial experience in Spanish football. The center-defender has additionally made 239 appearances for Real Sociedad.
Martinez acknowledged his joy at joining the Blaugrana by saying (via SPORT): “It gives me enormous pride and joy to visit this outstanding squad, the best team in the world. You have put a lot of trust in me, and I intend to live up to your expectations.”
He added: “I can’t wait to step onto the pitch and experience this wonderful yet challenging event. It will be a fantastic year, and I do not doubt that everything will work out perfectly. Look at Barcelona.”
Last year, Barcelona had the best defense. Therefore, the signing of a veteran campaigner like Martinez will only strengthen their backline’s stability.
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