Villarreal to battle it out with Valencia for Barça's Halilovic

Villarreal have joined the fight for the sevices of midfielder Alen Halilovic. Barcelona have already told the player he must look for another club and their priority is now to sell him, all the while maitaining an option to bring him back. 

Valencia began talks with the Catalan club several weeks ago and negotiations are advanced, but Villarreal have now got involved, too, and it seems the player prefers the latest option. In any case, it will depend on a deal being struck between all three parties. 

Barça signed Halilovic for 2.2 million euros, although variables mean it could eventually end up being as much as 10 million euros. That's the amount the Catalan club want to recover if they sell him. Valencia are ready to meet that price and have already spoke with the player regarding a five-year deal. Barça could then sign him back for 14 million euros within the first two years, while maintaining a first option on him after that. 

Villarreal, who are likely to lose Denis Suarez this summer, have also spoken with the player's agent and now also with Barça's sporting director to make their interest official. Now it depends on what Halilovic himself decides, although everything suggested he will be at either Valencia or Villarreal.