Report: La Liga Says Barcelona Youngster Can Continue As A First–Team Player
FC Barcelona were dealt with a major blow yesterday when the Mercantile Court reversed its decision to deem Gavi’s registration null and void.
The court made the headlines at the end of January when they favoured Barcelona in a ruling that allowed them to register the youngster as part of the first team. La Liga subsequently raised objections, arguing that Gavi’s registration is illegal as Barcelona were violating the Financial Fair Play regulations.
La Liga were ultimately victorious when the court reversed its decision last night, leading many to believe that Gavi will go back to his previous contract at Barça Athletic and relinquish his number six shirt.
However, according to Adria Soldevila, La Liga are ready to offer Barcelona some breathing space by not cancelling the contract of Gavi. While they had not ratified the youngster’s new deal that was signed back in September, it appears they are okay with the midfielder wearing the number six until the end of the season.
Furthermore, Gavi will continue to be a part of the first team and not return to the Barça Athletic squad. However, he will cease to be a part of the senior side at the end of the season, even becoming a free agent.
This has already put a host of top clubs across Europe on red alert, including Premier League giants Manchester City and Liverpool. Both these clubs are sensing a market opportunity around Gavi, and are expected to pounce on any opportunity.
Barcelona, meanwhile, have their task cut out. The Catalans must reduce a chunk of their wage bill in order to be able to officiate the contract of not only Gavi but also Ronald Araujo in the coming summer.
This could ultimately lead to the departure of one of their star players, with Chelsea reportedly sensing an opportunity to sign Frenkie de Jong. Ansu Fati has been linked with an exit as well, so it will be interesting to see how things transpire in the coming months.
