Benfica emerge as fresh suitors for out-of-favour Barcelona youngster – report | OneFootball

Barcelona have not yet ruled out the possibility of Ansu Fati leaving the club, despite the player’s reluctance to make a move in the current transfer window.

Several clubs have expressed interest in the forward, who is out of favour under Hansi Flick, and options are beginning to take shape.

On Thursday, we reported that Ajax had taken an interest in the 22-year-old La Masia youngster and now, a new club appears to have emerged as a suitor.

Benfica want Ansu Fati

Indeed, according to David Bernabeu Reverter of SPORT, SL Benfica have shown an interest in signing Ansu Fati in the final days of the transfer window.

The Portuguese giants have recently inquired about a potential loan move for the Spanish forward as they are looking to bolster their attacking options.

Benfica had shown interest in Fati last summer, although the deal never materialised. The player’s agent, Jorge Mendes, is listening to offers, and the situation will be assessed in the final days of the transfer window.

Several clubs want Ansu Fati. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

Both Benfica and Ajax are interested in securing Fati on a loan deal with an option to buy.

Barcelona, on the other hand, are open to a move for their academy graduate, as it would provide an opportunity for him to regain his value after spending some years out of the spotlight.

Fati’s current contract runs until 2027, and his wages are high, so the Catalans are asking that the interested club cover at least half of his salary for the remainder of the season.

Fati still reluctant

Despite the growing interest, Fati remains hesitant to leave Barcelona after a difficult spell at Brighton & Hove Albion last season, where he ended up as a substitute following some physical setbacks.

The 22-year-old forward feels more supported at Barcelona, where he is surrounded by teammates, and Hansi Flick has publicly stated that the club is willing to help him.

The German coach has made the situation clear to Fati, who understands that he will not see much playing time in the remainder of the season. However, for now, the forward’s stance remains firm, and he is not considering leaving.