San Diego Wave target rising Barcelona star to replace Naomi Girma | OneFootball

San Diego Wave is set to pull off a massive move in the NWSL market, with Jana Fernández, Barcelona's 22-year-old defender, on their radar. Having lost Naomi Girma to Chelsea not long ago, the Californian club looks for an adequate replacement in the form of the Spanish center-back.

But will the signing take place? According to Mundo Deportivo, Barça have until February 15 to activate an automatic contract extension that would further complicate the American club's plans.

San Diego Wave strengthen squad and set sights high in the NWSL

The Wave is at that very critical juncture in its rebuilding process. With Jonas Eidevall taking over as head coach from Arsenal, the club actively seeks reinforcements that will raise the level of the squad. Jana Fernández fits perfectly into this vision.

Eidevall is a huge admirer of the defender's playing style and believes she would be the perfect addition in front to make them more solid at the back. Her experience at such a young age is priceless, having already represented Spain's senior national team against top-tier opponents in the UEFA Champions League and World Cup qualifiers, not to mention being a multi-time champion with Barcelona.

Naomi Girma's departure has left a big gap at the back, and San Diego Wave must hurry. The club is following other targets, but Fernández is apparently the first choice.

Can Barcelona stop this transfer?

Even though San Diego Wave is extremely keen on Jana, the power lies with Barcelona. The unilateral renewal clause grants the club the right to extend Jana's contract unilaterally for a season, thus closing the door to any transfer.

However, Barça is in a financial sticky situation. Maintaining Jana would involve increased salary, which is a hassle to negotiate with the representative of the player. If the other party could not produce an agreement to seal the deal, an exit becomes the most rational direction this could go.

While Jana herself does not discard options to leave Camp Nou, from her side, the English league has always seemed the most attractive option. However, competitive wages, a high level, and a well-structured setting in which the clubs compete might indeed tempt her across the Atlantic.

Is Jana Fernández the right fit for San Diego Wave?

Jana Fernández would be a very strategic signing for San Diego Wave if the transfer goes through. She's different from Naomi Girma in skills, but she can add an extra layer to the defensive system.

With great game reading, refined technique, and international experience, Jana has all the tools to adapt quickly to soccer in the United States.

Should negotiations progress, then Eidevall will have a defender capable of becoming a key piece in the club's new era. However, time is running out as Barcelona must make its decision soon, with San Diego Wave not able to wait too long either.