Leo Messi and Andres Iniesta key in Andre Gomes' decision
Andre Gomes had the final say.
Between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, who presented Valencia with very similar offers for the Portuguese player's signature, the European Championship winner opted for the Catalan club because he admires their style of play, and for the chance to star alongside Leo Messi and Andres Iniesta.
This was confirmed by sources close to the midfielder.
The new Barça man, who has been at Valencia for the past two seasons, becoming one of European and world football's major prospects in the attacking midfielder position, received the promise of the Mestalla club that he would be allowed to choose his destination if the offers were of equal conditions.
With Chelsea and PSG having given up on the chase, Valencia were left with similar proposals from FC Barcelona and Real Madrid. It was here that the decision was placed in the Portuguese player's hands, and he chose Barça.
The possession based game of Luis Enrique's side seduces Andre Gomes, and he believes that he would fit into this style more comfortably than that of Real Madrid, where ball possession is not so vital.
Also, he would be able to achieve his dream of playing with two of the players he most admires, Messi and Iniesta, which at the moment of truth, also influenced his final decision.
