Barcelona have completed the signing of Valencia striker Paco Alcacer on a 5-year deal. The Spaniard becomes the Catalans’ sixth signing of the summer after the arrivals of Lucas Digne, Andre Gomes, Jasper Cillessen, Samuel Umtiti and Denis Suarez.
The 23-year-old signs from Valencia in a deal reported to be worth about €30 million, with a further €2m in add-ons and bonuses.
Alacacer’s buyout clause has been set at a whopping €100m and he will be presented to the football club after he arrives back from international duty next week.
Alcacer, a proven goal scorer, would be expected to link up well with Barcelona’s front trio of Neymar, Messi, and Suarez. A product of Valencia’s youth academy, Alcacer made over 100 appearances for Los Che amassing 43 goals.
He has also made 13 appearances for Spain, hitting the back of the net on 6 occasions.
Luis Enrique has been on the lookout for a backup striker ever since the opening of the window. Luciano Vietto and Kevin Gameiro were Barcelona’s other targets, but the Barcelona manager finally settled on Alacacer.
Although initially not for sale, Valencia eventually relented after seeing the player’s lack of focus and his desire to move away.
In an interview with Valencia’s official website he said,"When I found out about the offer from FC Barcelona I asked the club to listen to it, as it was my decision to take a step forward in my career. I want to thank Valencia CF and the fans. Despite the fact that I am leaving Valencia CF, I will always be a Valencianista at heart."
He also spoke to Barcelona officials, “I will try and do my bit by bringing goals and hard work.”
Alacacer could make his debut as early as the 10th of September against Alves.
Munir moves the other way
Meanwhile, Barcelona talent Munir has moved the other way on a season-long loan deal, with an option to make it permanent for €12m at the end of the season.
Munir arrived at Barcelona in 2011 and has made quite an impact at the club. With 10 goals in just under 50 appearances, Munir has established himself at the club, but the arrival of Alcacer could see his playing time limited and Enrique is hopeful that the 20-year-old could see some first team action at Valencia.
Barcelona sporting director Robert Fernandez has ruled out any further signings after the arrival of Alcacer.
