During the recent Ballon d'Or gala in Paris, Barcelona president Joan Laporta spoke with Jorge Mendes, agent of midfielder Vitinha. Mendes took the opportunity to suggest the 23-year-old Portuguese as a possible transfer for the Catalan club, as revealed by Defensa Central. However, this wasn't the first time that Barça had the option of transfer Vitinha, a key player for PSG.
Before his arrival in Paris, Mendes had already raised the possibility of Vitinha wearing the Barça jersey. Today, Laporta regrets not having completed the deal, as the young midfielder has shown his ability to dominate matches and be one of the best midfielders in Europe.
Joan Laporta Wants the Perfect Partner for Dani Olmo
The idea of transfer Vitinha is gaining momentum again in a Barcelona that is looking to strengthen its midfield. Beyond Pedri, the club needs a player who can keep control of the ball. A player who can set the pace of the game and link up with Dani Olmo, a key piece in the offensive scheme.
Vitinha's vision and ability to move the ball under pressure make him the ideal partner for Olmo. The two would form a duo that could offer Barça a lot in attack and balance.
But, in addition to being fundamental for PSG, Vitinha has a contract until 2027, which makes a possible transfer difficult. Mendes, who has already tried to place Vitinha in elite clubs in the past, such as Real Madrid, continues to move pieces to open doors for him. However, Barça's financial situation is a major obstacle.
The obstacles to a complicated transfer
Barcelona are facing a delicate financial situation. The cost of transfer Vitinha and his contract with PSG make any immediate move difficult. Salary cap limitations and adjustments to the Barça squad don't make the operation any easier. However, Laporta remains in contact with Mendes and hopes that conditions can change in the future.
Laporta knows that Vitinha could make a difference in midfield, providing control and linking up naturally with Olmo. Despite the challenges, Barça's interest in Vitinha remains. The option remains on the table and the club is analyzing any possibility of negotiation.
So, while PSG enjoy Vitinha's talent, Barça regret not having signed him at the time.