Spanish outfit explore loan move for Barcelona defensive talent bound for Como | OneFootball

The departure of Andres Cuenca from Barcelona is now widely expected, and fresh reports have added more clarity to how his future is likely to unfold. 

The 18-year-old centre-back, who has been a regular figure for Barça Atletic, is set to move on this month with his contract at Barcelona due to expire at the end of the season.

As previously reported, Cuenca is on the verge of joining Como 1907, with negotiations now at an advanced stage. 

While the young defender had multiple offers from different clubs across Europe, all signs currently point towards the Serie A side winning the race for his signature. 

The deal is understood to be close to completion, with only final details remaining.

Cuenca set to move

Barcelona were aware that retaining him beyond this season would be difficult, especially given the competition for defensive places and the player’s desire for a clearer pathway at senior level. 

Andres Cuenca is set to move from Barcelona. (Photo by Vasile Mihai-Antonio/Getty Images for DFB)

With his contract running down, Como see this as an opportunity to secure a high-upside talent before he becomes available elsewhere.

The Italian club is keen to sign Cuenca immediately. However, the plan is not for the defender to step straight into Serie A action. 

Instead, Como intend to loan him out for the remainder of the season so that he can continue developing through regular minutes in a competitive environment. 

In that context, according to Mundo Deportivo, Sporting Gijon have emerged as a serious option. 

The Segunda División side is exploring the possibility of a loan deal that would allow Cuenca to gain valuable experience in Spanish football before making the jump to Italy next season.

For Cuenca, the pathway is becoming increasingly clear. A temporary move to Sporting Gijon, followed by a permanent switch to Como, would allow him to continue his development while preparing for the demands of Serie A.