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What's the story?
According to reports from Spain, Paris Saint-Germain are on the verge of signing Sevilla's 27-year-old attacking midfielder Pablo Sarabia. A few minor details on the contract are to be ironed out and the official announcement is expected this week itself.
In case you didn't know...
Paris Saint-Germain are looking to reinforce their squad after a disappointing 2018-19 season. Despite easily winning yet another French Ligue 1 title, Thomas Tuchel's side were eliminated from the Champions League by Manchester United and lost the Coupe de France final on penalties to Stade Rennes.
Pablo Sarabia had a fantastic season with Sevilla in 2018-19, scoring 16 goals and providing 14 assists across all competitions. With 13 assists in La Liga, the Spaniard was level with Barcelona talisman Lionel Messi as the top assist provider in the Spanish top division. His performances have even resulted in the Spanish media calling for his selection into the Spanish national side.
A product of the Real Madrid academny, Sarabia failed to break into the Los Blancos first team and joined Sevilla in 2016 after a 5 year spell at Getafe. He has represented Spain at all junior age groups including the Under-19s and Under-21s.
The heart of the matter
According to AS Sport, Paris Saint-Germain are set to close a €20 Million deal for the former Spanish Under-21 international with the future of some of their attackers like Kylian Mbappe and Neymar remaining uncertain.
Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid were also reportedly interested in the 27-year-old but could not compete with the superior wages being offered by the Parisian club. Sevilla's Sporting Director Ramon Monchi made a last ditch attempt to convince their star forward to stay, but the player was adamant that the offer from PSG was too irresistable to turn down.
What's next?
PSG will begin their pre-season tour in China, with a friendly against Serie A giants Inter Milan on 27th July.
