Barcelona’s pursuit of 18-year-old winger loses momentum amid valuation dispute | OneFootball

Barcelona’s plans to strengthen their youth ranks this summer have encountered an obstacle, with the club now easing their pursuit of highly-rated winger Jesse Bisiwu.

According to SPORT, the Catalan giants have decided to lower the intensity of their efforts to sign the 18-year-old Club Brugge prospect after encountering significant difficulties during negotiations. 

The Belgian youngster had emerged as one of the standout names on Barcelona’s shortlist as the club looked to secure another promising talent for the future.

For several weeks, there had been growing optimism surrounding a potential operation. 

Barcelona’s sporting department had closely monitored Bisiwu’s development and viewed him as a player capable of fitting into the club’s long-term project. 

However, recent developments have forced a reassessment of the situation.

Barcelona hit obstacle in negotiations

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As reported by the outlet, Barcelona had already made initial contact with Club Brugge and even submitted an opening proposal for the young winger. 

The response from the Belgian club, however, was far from encouraging.

Club Brugge considered Barcelona’s offer well below the valuation they have placed on one of the most highly regarded players within their academy structure. 

As a result, discussions failed to gain the momentum Barcelona had hoped for.

The situation became even more complicated despite the fact that Bisiwu has reportedly turned down several attempts by Club Brugge to extend his current contract, which still runs until 2027. 

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While that detail could have strengthened Barcelona’s position in negotiations, the Belgian club remain firm in their demands and are unwilling to lower their expectations.

Barcelona looking at alternative targets

One of the key features of Barcelona’s recruitment strategy in recent years has been flexibility. 

Rather than becoming dependent on a single target, the club’s scouting network continuously tracks multiple players across different markets.

Hence, Barcelona are now intensifying their search for other young wingers with high potential. 

In fact, contacts have already been established with alternative profiles. While that does not mean the door is completely closed on Bisiwu, his priority level has clearly dropped as negotiations remain far apart.