Barcelona keeping a close eye as Serie A giants begin talks for ex-winger valued above €50 million | OneFootball

Barcelona are just finding their way back to the surface after being submerged in financial issues for the past few seasons.

In such a situation, any financial windfall will be welcome from the Catalan club’s perspective, and this could also come courtesy of some former players.

Barcelona could benefit financially if Ez Abde leaves Real Betis this summer, with the club attentive to interest in him from Roma.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Roma have contacted Real Betis to ask about Abde’s availability as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of next season’s Champions League campaign.

However, the Italian club have not submitted an official offer.

Betis stand firm on valuation

Real Betis are in no rush to sell one of their standout performers. The report says the Andalusian club have informed Roma that Abde’s release clause stands at €60 million and that they are unwilling to negotiate a transfer for less than €50 million.

AS Roma eye Abde. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

That valuation reflects the Morocco international’s impressive campaign, in which he registered 15 goals and 13 assists in 43 appearances, establishing himself as one of Betis’ most influential attacking players.

The winger was unfortunate to miss out on World Cup action with Morocco after suffering an injury in the lead-up to the tournament.

Barcelona have a financial interest

While Barcelona are not being linked with a move to re-sign Abde, they remain invested in his future.

The club still own 20% of the player’s transfer rights, meaning any sizeable transfer would generate income for Barça without them needing to negotiate directly.

In fact, the Blaugrana had 50% of the player’s transfer rights when they sold him to Betis but traded away 30% to break Vitor Roque’s loan deal early.

Given the club’s continued focus on improving their financial position, that clause could prove valuable if a major offer eventually arrives.

Barcelona could benefit from Abde’s transfer. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

At the moment, Roma’s interest has not developed into formal negotiations, making a transfer far from certain.

Betis’ asking price is a significant hurdle, particularly for a player recovering from a knee sprain. However, Abde is expected to be fully fit and recovered very soon.

For Barcelona, this is a waiting game. The club do not control Abde’s future, but they do stand to benefit if another team eventually meets Betis’ valuation.

Abde has gone on to develop into one of the best young wingers in the sport, and it remains to be seen where his career takes him next.

As for Barcelona, they were right to sell the Moroccan when they did, and some smart negotiation on their part could see them benefit this summer.