Barcelona Set to Land Highly-Rated Junior Firpo from Real Betis

Spanish champions Barcelona are on the verge of signing Real Betis left-back Junior Firpo as cover for 30-year old Jordi Alba. 

The 22-year-old full-back was one of La Liga’s most exciting prospects with Barcelona favourites to land him. Junior Firpo recently impressed for the Spain U21 side as they were crowned European champions last month. 

Firpo’s release clause is close to €50m. However, Real Betis are aware of the huge price tag and will listen to offers around the region of €30m. 

According to Gianluca di Marzio from Sky Sports Italy, Barcelona and Real Betis have agreed a  deal worth for the Dominican-born defender, pending the approval of president Josep Bartomeu.

Ernesto Valverde is in desperate need for an alternative at left-back who can provide competition to Jordi Alba. The Blaugrana manager has had limited options at the left side of the defence since the departures of Lucas Digne to Everton. 

Free-agent Filipe Luis was a transfer target but the Brazilian announced his move to Flamengo yesterday. Also, given Jordi Alba’s age, Junior Firpo could also his eventual successor at the club. 

Barcelona have already spent close to €230m this summer with the signings of Antoine Griezmann from Atletico Madrid, Frenkie de Jong from Ajax and Neto from Valencia. The addition of Junior Firpo will make it a memorable transfer window for the Blaugrana fans as they look to retain their La Liga title and push for the Champions League next trophy next season. 

Firpo was also scouted by Liverpool as Jurgen Klopp was keen on bringing in a back-up for Andy Robertson after Alberto Moreno was released by the club as he joined Villarreal. However, the Champions League winners have dropped out from the race following Barcelona’s continued pursuit.