Manchester City join Barcelona in race for La Liga breakout striker – Report | OneFootball

After strengthening their attacking options during the last summer transfer window, FC Barcelona are expected to scour the market for reinforcements to further bolster their forward line in the coming months.

One key reason behind this approach is the age of Robert Lewandowski, who is now 37. The Polish striker remains a vital figure, but Barcelona are aware that they must start planning for the future and identify a long-term replacement capable of leading their attack in the years to come.

Among the rising talents attracting Barcelona’s attention is Etta Eyong, the 22-year-old Cameroonian striker who has emerged as one of the biggest revelations of the La Liga season.

Having joined Levante from Villarreal for just €3.8 million at the end of the summer, Eyong has taken Spanish football by storm with his pace, power, and finishing ability.

Interestingly, Barcelona had already been monitoring Eyong before his transfer to Levante. The club’s scouting department had identified him as a promising target during his time at Villarreal, but the financial constraints the club faced over the summer prevented them from making an official move.

Levante took advantage of that situation, completing a low-cost deal that is now proving to be one of the smartest pieces of business in La Liga.

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His performances have not gone unnoticed. According to a report from Fichajes, Manchester City have now joined FC Barcelona, and both clubs are now keeping a close eye on his development.

Barcelona see Eyong as a young forward with the pace, power, and finishing ability needed to fit perfectly into their long-term project. The club believes he has the quality to succeed at the highest level and could become an ideal addition in the upcoming transfer windows.

Manchester City, on the other hand, have also entered the race. Pep Guardiola is known for his ability to develop young, technically gifted players, and Eyong fits perfectly into that profile.

His explosive acceleration, composure in front of goal, and physical attributes make him a natural fit for English football. The report further indicates that City are prepared to make a substantial offer if the striker maintains his impressive form.

Levante, meanwhile, find themselves in a strong position. The club’s €3.8 million investment in Eyong is already paying off, as his market value has risen to around €20 million (as per transfermarkt valuation).

Levante’s agreement with Villarreal includes clauses ensuring future financial benefits. If an offer above €15 million arrives, Levante would be obliged to sell, while Villarreal would receive a share of the profit and retain the right of first refusal should they wish to re-sign the player.

This structure means both Levante and Villarreal could benefit significantly from any future transfer involving Eyong. Villarreal, who chose to let him leave in search of other targets last summer, may now regret that decision as the young forward’s reputation continues to grow.

For now, Levante are enjoying the contributions of a player who has quickly become their attacking leader. Eyong’s rapid rise suggests that it may only be a matter of time before he takes the next step in his career.

Barcelona and Manchester City are currently leading the race for his signature, but several other European clubs are also following him with great interest.

If he maintains his current form, Etta Eyong could soon become one of the most sought-after young forwards in Europe and one of the most profitable transfers in Levante’s history.