Barcelona encounter setback in Sofyan Amrabat pursuit
La Liga heavyweights Barcelona have reportedly encountered a stumbling block in the bid to sign Fiorentina midfielder Sofyan Amrabat.
Fabrizio Romano has told Caught Offside that Sofyan Amrabat remains a target for Barcelona. But the Catalan giants face a roadblock in their bid to sign the Moroccan midfielder from Serie A club Fiorentina. And Financial Fair Play issues might stop Barcelona from signing the player, whose market value is €25 million.
Romano said, “Premier League is completely quiet for Sofyan Amrabat now, it was one of the possibilities in January. Now I’m told the focus is on possible La Liga move – but Barcelona moves depend on the Financial Fair Play so it’s too early to say.”
Sofyan Amrabat has found stability in his career since joining Fiorentina from Hellas Verona. And the Moroccan international has been a pivotal figure for the Serie A outfit over the last three years. Meanwhile, he was in the spotlight during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, as Morocco reached the semi-finals.
The 26-year-old has made nearly 100 appearances for Fiorentina, chipping in with one goal. But Amrabat’s stint with the Serie A outfit might be set to end as he looks to take the next step in his career. Such a situation has captured the attention of several high-profile clubs, including Barcelona.
Barcelona attempted to sign Amrabat late in the January transfer window. But a move did not materialise as Fiorentina stood firm on the stance to not sell the player. That left a sour taste in Amrabat’s mouth, although he has returned to action and become a pivotal figure for La Viola again.
The Catalan giants remain keen on signing the 26-year-old, who wants to embark on a new adventure. And widespread reports have claimed that he is a priority target for Barcelona. But amid claims from Javier Tebas that he will not allow the Blaugrana to sign a player until they balance the books, a summer move might not be possible.
Amrabat has a market value of €25 million, but Fiorentina will likely demand much more than that. But it will be interesting to see if Barcelona can sell a few players for big money to fund moves for players like the Moroccan international. Meanwhile, potential competition from Premier League clubs might also be on the cards, despite Romano’s suggestions.
