Barcelona agree deal to sign Ruben Neves as reports of incredible player-plus-cash deal emerge

According to SPORT (via Football Espana), Barcelona have agreed to sign Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Ruben Neves in a player-plus-cash deal.

The report claims that the deal has been sealed between Barcelona and Neves, represented by his management team led by agent Jorge Mendes. The Portuguese playmaker is set to sign a four-year contract with the Blaugrana.

In a twist of financial acrobatics, Barca, in their current cash-strapped condition, have conjured a solution that avoids a straightforward transfer fee for Neves. Ansu Fati, the emerging Spanish winger, will move to the English club and Barca will receive an additional €30m along with Neves.

However, it's not clear if Fati is ready to exit Camp Nou. In case he declines, the backup plan involves roping in Morrocan winger Ez Abde or American full-back Sergino Dest. The Wolves board is reportedly willing to accommodate this fluid negotiation, with expectations set for the final deal to be sealed and delivered by June's end.

While the wheels of this transaction are still churning, the move appears to be imminent. However, Barcelona manager, Xavi Hernandez, isn't considered a staunch supporter of Neves, which raises doubts about the role he will play in his team next season.

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Barcelona have secured a five-year sponsorship deal amidst financial turmoil

In a momentous stride towards financial stabilization, Barcelona have reached a new five-year sponsorship agreement valued at €56 million, according to Mundo Deportivo (via Forbes). This significant inflow of cash is anticipated to provide much-needed support for the club in their endeavors to bring fresh talent to their roster.

Dutch electronics company Philips will sponsor the sleeve of the first team shirt. The two parties have ratified a contract set to span over three seasons, with an option to extend for an additional two terms. The optional extension into the fourth and fifth years hinges on mutual agreement between Barcelona and Philips.

While the contractual complexities play out, Barca have good reason to celebrate. Since Beko's sponsorship expired in 2021, leaving the sleeve bare, the Catalans have been in search of a new partner. Now, not only do they have a sponsor, but they also stand to earn substantially more from this deal than they did with Beko, which was valued at €19 million.