The FC Barcelona has shown that, despite enjoying a remarkable state of form in sports, being one of the best (if not the best) teams in Europe at present, there is also room, amidst all the joy, to not neglect several of its organizational matters, especially concerning renewals and signings. In this regard, the Blaugrana team has recently held key meetings. The first of these was with Héctor Peris, agent of Pedri González, Ferran Torres, and Noah Darvich. The second summit was also with another representative, who has a strong connection with the Culés: Jorge Mendes.
As reported by 'Jijantes', Barcelona held a meeting on the night of last Thursday with Jorge Mendes. In this summit, the institution's president, Joan Laporta, and the sporting director, Deco, were present. During this meeting, two specific matters were discussed: the situation of the goalkeeper Diogo Costa, a potential reinforcement for the Catalan team in goalkeeping, and the renewal of Lamine Yamal.
Diogo Costa, potential reinforcement for FC Barcelona's goalkeeping
Regarding Diogo Costa, it is important to note that the current Portuguese goalkeeper is among FC Barcelona's main targets to strengthen the goalkeeping position, given the uncertainty surrounding Marc-André ter Stegen's knee injury recovery. Therefore, as a precautionary measure, the Blaugrana team could consider approaching a player who, at 25 years old, shows outstanding potential, being the starting goalkeeper for the Portuguese national team and Porto, one of Europe's most iconic and representative clubs.
However, concerning this potential transaction, it is crucial to consider that Diogo Costa, as he increasingly establishes himself as a top-level goalkeeper, does not come cheap. His release clause amounts to €75 million, with a market value close to €45 million. His contract with Porto extends until 2027, giving the 'Dragons' significant negotiation leverage at this moment.
Lamine Yamal's renewal is simmering 'slowly'
Regarding the renewal of Lamine Yamal, it is worth recalling that the right-winger extended his contract with the club until 2026 in 2023, the maximum allowed by regulations for an underage player. It is expected that once he reaches the age of majority, he will be offered a longer-term contract.
It is evident that Lamine Yamal is in a position to renew his contract with the club, given his rise as one of the stellar names of the Catalan team, a young star whose level of play is increasingly captivating. Barcelona will need to offer him a salary commensurate with his importance in the Barcelona roster, seeking to secure his stay and deter any interest from other clubs.
The new 'gem' represented by Jorge Mendes: Pedro Fernández
On a different note, it is worth mentioning that before this meeting, Jorge Mendes dealt with the case of the young Barcelona player, Pedro Fernández, who, accompanied by his father and brother, approached the Portuguese coach to greet the recently appointed representative. Fernández thus joins the list of Barcelona players represented by the Portuguese, which includes names like Lamine Yamal, Alejandro Balde, Ansu Fati, and Guille Fernández.