In-demand La Liga forward prefers Barcelona move despite strong Real Madrid interest | OneFootball

According to a report from SPORT, it has come to light that Levante forward Etta Eyong continues to favour a move to Barcelona, even as Real Madrid have entered the race for his signature.

The 22-year-old striker has become one of the most sought-after young talents in Spanish football, and his performances have not gone unnoticed. 

In recent weeks, Real Madrid have joined the bidding, with the club’s director of football, Santiago Solari, personally recommending his signing. 

The Spanish giants are said to be closely monitoring Eyong’s progress and believe he could develop into a valuable attacking option for the future.

He wants Barcelona

Interestingly, despite Madrid’s growing interest, Eyong’s stance remains unchanged. 

He is determined to wait for Barcelona, as the club he has long considered his ideal destination. 

It must be remembered that he expressed his desire to join the Catalan side during the summer window, but the move could not materialise at the time. 

Etta Eyong prefers Barcelona over Real Madrid. (Photo by Rafa Babot/Getty Images)

Still, Eyong is said to be willing to wait until 2026 for another opportunity to wear the Blaugrana colours.

What about the finances?

Levante are preparing for his inevitable departure next year. They are expected to accept any offer of around €15 million, although his release clause stands at €30 million. 

Meanwhile, Villarreal, who hold the right of first refusal, are unlikely to re-sign the forward, as Eyong has no intention of returning.

Barcelona, for their part, had maintained contact with Eyong’s camp during the closing stages of the August transfer window. 

During that time, Villarreal demanded the full €10 million release clause, which ultimately forced Barça to walk away.

Now, the club see Eyong’s market value as reasonable, though they are unwilling to engage in a bidding war against financially stronger competitors. 

Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, has yet to finalise whether the team will pursue a new striker, but Eyong remains one of his top priorities should the club decide to reinforce the No. 9 position.