Francisco Trincão is back in the spotlight of European soccer. At 25 years old, the Portuguese winger has become one of the key players for Sporting Lisbon, attracting the interest of top-tier clubs. But what no one imagined is that Manchester City, led by Pep Guardiola, would be willing to pay 80 million euros for him.
From Failed Promise at Barça to Star in Portugal
Trincão arrived at FC Barcelona in 2020 as a future prospect. The Catalan club paid 30 million euros to SC Braga with the hope that he would become a standout player. However, his performance did not meet expectations, and he ended up being loaned first to Wolverhampton and then to Sporting Lisbon.
Barça eventually parted ways with him permanently, although with a smart move: they retained 50% of a future sale. Now, time seems to have proven right those who believed in his talent.
Guardiola Wants Him for His New Project
According to the Portuguese newspaper A Bola, Manchester City is ready to make a significant investment in Trincão. Guardiola sees in him a perfect fit for his system, a winger with dribbling skills, speed, and the ability to connect with teammates. Additionally, his compatriot Hugo Viana, former Sporting sporting director and future City member, could be key in the operation.
But they are not alone in the race. Manchester United has also shown interest, especially if they manage to sign Rúben Amorim as coach, who has already worked with Trincão in Portugal.
80 Million and an Unexpected Benefit for Barça
The major obstacle for any team wanting to sign Trincão is his release clause: 80 million euros. Sporting wants to renew his contract and secure him even more, but if an English club pays the clause, they won't be able to do anything to retain him.
In that case, FC Barcelona would automatically receive half of the transfer, that is, 40 million euros. For a club with financial problems, it would be an unexpected and very welcome income.
Laporta Didn't See It Coming
At Barça, they never thought Trincão would become so valuable. When they let him go, it seemed his time in the elite was destined to be unremarkable. But his growth at Sporting has surprised many, including Joan Laporta.
If Guardiola and City ultimately pay the 80 million, the Catalan club will be able to celebrate not only the unexpected revaluation of a discard but also a great business deal. Now, it only remains to see what the player decides and if the Premier League will indeed be his next destination.