How Barcelona plan to manage on loan Marlon Santos' future

How Barcelona plan to manage on loan Marlon Santos' future

The Brazilian made his debut against Celtic and the club hope to sign him permanently 

In just a few months, Marlon Santos has overcome all the difficulties which come with leaving Brazil and landing at a club like Barcelona. He’s earned the affection of the B team and the admiration of the first team, with Luis Enrique leading the way. 

Now the moment has come to take decisions. Marlon’s on loan until the end of the season with a fixed option to buy for six million euros, if and and when he plays five official games for the first team. The price could then increase by two million. His debut in the Champions League and his more than probably participation in the Copa del Rey will force the club to make a move. 

Barça are managing various scenarios. First of all, the coaches approve the signing of Marlon. The doubts arise when it comes to managing his short-term future. 

The coaches feel that Segunda B is not a good enough league and that Marlon needs to accumulate quality minutes, while the first team is not quite in a position to give them to him. Therefore, one option is to sign him and look for a loan, be that in January or at the end of the season. 

Financially, the investment is minimal. Fluminense, who still own Marlon’s rights, have a four million debt with Barça. If the operation is pushed through, the Brazilian defender would only cost two million euros. 

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