Barcelona are desperately in need of a back-up forward to deputise for their star trio of Luis Suarez, Neymar and Lionel Messi and latest reports from both Sport and Mundo Deportivo claim that the Blaugrana are in “advanced talks” to sign Valencia striker Paco Alcacer for around €30 million. The deal could involve either Munir El Haddadi or Sergi Samper moving in the opposite direction.
The Spanish giants have been linked with a number of forwards such as Kevin Gameiro, Luciano Vietto, Gabriel Jesus and even Jonas this transfer window, but they have been knocked back time and again as none of the forwards are keen to play second fiddle to the awesome ‘MSN’ trio.
Barcelona’s technical secretary remained confident of signing a fourth forward before the start of the La Liga season:
"(The new signing) will be a striker. We had to analyse all the things that were on the table and so I had to travel (to South America to address different alternatives). After that we will take the most opportune decision for the team," Fernandez explained after the 3-2 victory over Sampdoria as reported by AS. He added: "It will be (done) before the start of La Liga, that is at least my intention."
The trip to South America, however, did not seem to bear fruit as Paco Alcacer seems to be the first choice with the 22-year-old Spanish attacker willing to accept a bit-part role.
The release clause of the talented Alcacer is set at €80 million, but according to Mundo Deportivo, the deal could be completed for around €30 million.
Also Read: Andre Gomes - Where does he fit in at Barcelona?
Barcelona have already signed Andre Gomes from Valencia, with Luis Suarez particularly impressed with the young Portuguese midfielder:
"Andre Gomes will help us a lot and brings a lot to the team," he added.
"He was one of Valencia's most eye-catching players. We are very happy to have a player like him in our team."
Denis Suarez, Samuel Umtiti, Lucas Digne, and Andre Gomes all 22 years old have already made their moves to Barcelona this season, and Paco Alcacer could become the 5th 22-year-old to make a move to Camp Nou.
Barcelona’s manager Luis Enrique is building a strong squad keeping an eye on the future and they have strengthened in almost all areas with only a backup forward and backup right-back missing on Barcelona’s books.
