EXCLUSIVE: Barça held a meeting with Marquinhos' agents
Barça have already put the machine into motion as they look to strengthen their squad for next season. Despite the recent dip in form, the coaching staff still believe the side only needs a few touches, but of quality, especially in defence - in concrete, a centre-back. After months of analysis, the club have marked out Marquinho (Paris Saint-Germain) and a few days ago had a meeting in Barcelona with the agents of the player to make their interest official and explore a possible agreement.
The Catalan club have maintained a very good relationship with his agent, Giuliano Bertolucci, from previous negotiations. In this meeting, though, was also Marquinhos’ brother, Luan Aoas, who lives in Paris. Both have also had contact with Chelsea and Manchester City but their priority - if there’s a move away from PSG - is to move to Barça. The situation was analysed and it seems the player would be open to the move, despite likely having to take a hit on his salary at PSG, but his departure from the French club is more complicated. From that point of view, the player himself would have to play a fundamental role if he’s to dress, once and for all, in an azulgrana shirt.
Bertolucci already warned months ago that Marquinhos was not happy at PSG because he didn’t play enough. Laurent Blanc keeps him on the bench and often uses him out of position at right-back when he does play him. His agent was very clear: “If Marquinhos’ situation doesn’t change, he will ask to leave.”
And that is the key to everything. Barça have communicated to his representatives that they wants to sign him and would pay more than 30 million euros, but it has to be the player who negotiates his exit from PSG. The French club have made it clear he’s not for sale because he’s one for the future and Barcelona have always maintained good relations with the Ligue 1 side. If the player plays his part, though, negotiations could be opened in a satisfactory manner. PSG, in addition, feel it would not be a good idea to strengthen a Champions League rial.
Barça know Marquinhos has important economic and sporting offers from the Premier League, too. Chelsea is the team most interested in him, but Marquinhos doesn’t want to take a step forward in that regard without knowing Barcelona’s intentions. Now he he knows they want him, he has it clear what his best option is. He loves the Spanish league and the city of Barcelona. He also understands he could play many more minutes than currently at PSG. He can play in the middle of defence, although he can also play as a full-back.
From here, the talks could intensify to reach an agreement at the end of the season. No-one is in a rush and the subject will be dealt with with maximum discretion. They know that noise helps nobody. Everything is now in PSG’s hands, anyway. Barça want to know as soon as possible if a deal will be possible. If PSG block the way, the club will go for an alternative, but the market for centre-backs is scarce and the competition is tough.
