Barcelona-bound? Euro 2024 star wants to fulfil childhood dream

Tom Weber

Updated: 29 Jun 2024 18:15 BST
2 min read

Long-time Barcelona target Stanislav Lobotka has admitted that it is his dream to play for the Blaugrana.

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The Napoli midfielder is not the most flashy player, but he gets the job done. Lobotka has been a standout performer for the Serie A side for years and he is currently showing off his talents at Euro 2024.

Lobotka has played a crucial role in Slovakia reaching the knockout stages of the tournament in Germany and he will line up against England on Sunday. Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport ahead of the game, Lobotka discussed his future and was inevitably asked about Barcelona.

That is because the Blaugrana have been quite open about their admiration for the 29-year-old. In March, Barcelona president Joan Laporta publically announced his intention to sign Lobotka this summer.

“We talked about it with [sporting director] Deco. We spoke with Deco about the possible arrival of Lobotka from Napoli. Barcelona would take him. But many other things would have to happen first.”

Current ETV

Stanislav Lobotka

DM (CRL)

Napoli

Stanislav Lobotka

DM (CRL)

Napoli

ETV Range

€26.8M - €44.7M

Lobotka keen on the move

Now, Lobotka himself has admitted that he would be open to the move, revealing that he is a childhood Barcelona fan. “I’ve been following Barcelona since I was a child. I would like to play in a top club,” the 29-year-old said.

Just a few days ago, his agent revealed that talks with the Blaugrana had broken down following the dismissal of coach Xavi, though he did insist that the transfer wasn't dead in the water yet.

“We had agreed terms with Barcelona, but there was a managerial change. Barcelona have some financial issues and the situation is unclear. It’s not over yet and the situation is evolving. Everyone is aware of Lobotka’s quality. They know it in Barcelona, in Madrid and in England.

“Stanis can return to Napoli [for pre-season] and everyone will be happy. Currently, this is the most likely option. Napoli won’t let one of their best players leave and it would be an expensive purchase. Some coaches are looking for this kind of midfielder and I am talking to some of them.”

New Napoli coach Antonio Conte announced at his unveiling that he has 'placed an absolute veto' on the potential sale of Lobotka.