Barcelona 'probe' SHOCK bargain move for former Premier League star

Tom Weber

• Updated: 21 May 2024 11:24 BST
• 4 min read

Barcelona are interested in Ayoze Perez, according to Spanish media.

Despite the public facade presented by president Joan Laporta, it seems that Barcelona are still in dire straits financially. In fact, head coach Xavi publically admitted as much week and it could now cost him his job.

The fact of the matter is, however, that the Blaugrana can't spend big this summer unless they manage to rake in some significant funds from sales. This means that Laporta, sporting director Deco and company will have to go bargain hunting once again.

READ MORE: Arsenal, Barcelona stunned as Bayern barge into Xavi Simons race with key advantage

The first signing of the summer appears to have already been all but wrapped up. Argentine World Cup winner and Real Betis midfielder Guido Rodriguez looks set to head to Catalunya on a free transfer.

Now, it has been revealed that one of Rodriguez's teammates could follow him to Barcelona.

STATS

Ayoze Pérez

AM (CRL)

Real Betis

Ayoze Pérez

AM (CRL)

Real Betis

All Tournaments

2023/24

• 37

  Games

• 11

  Goals

• 2

  Assists

View all stats

Barca want ex-Newcastle, Leicester star

At least that's according to AS, which reports that Barcelona have begun looking into the feasibility of a move for Ayoze Perez. The Spaniard previously divided opinion in the Premier League during his time with Newcastle and Leicester.

An eminently talented player, Perez often struggled to consistently perform to the level expected, which infuriated many a supporter. Loaned to Betis in January 2023, his move was made permanent last summer.

READ MORE: Barcelona star snubs Chelsea and Man Utd for Premier League rivals

Now 30 years of age and primarily a left winger, Perez still has a game left with Betis to improve on his tally of 11 goals and two assists across all competitions this term. Though a fairly unimpressive return on the face of it, the attacker is interesting to Barcelona due to his release clause and because, according to Spanish media, he is 'in one of the best moments of his career.'

Perez was included on Luis de la Fuente's preliminary list for Spain's Euro 2024 squad and is considered a very important player for Betis. He is available for just €4 million due to his exit clause and this has piqued the interest of Barcelona. The Blaugrana, it is claimed, are long-time admirers of the former Premier League star.