Barcelona risk losing 22-year-old forward target as CSKA Moscow make early move | OneFootball

Barcelona’s plans for the summer transfer window could suffer a significant setback, with new developments complicating their long-standing interest in Etta Eyong. 

According to a report from SPORT, the Blaugrana are now facing serious competition as Levante prepare to listen to offers for the highly rated forward and are open to facilitating his exit at the end of the season.

The situation has accelerated due to strong interest from abroad, as CSKA Moscow have already placed a concrete proposal on the table, offering €25 million plus performance-related add-ons. 

With bonuses included, the deal would come close to Levante’s €30 million release clause. 

Despite the attractive figure, Levante are not keen on a straightforward, immediate sale. Instead, they are exploring a more strategic formula that would help them manage their finances in the short term.

What’s the story?

Levante’s preferred solution involves receiving a portion of the transfer fee now to balance their books, while allowing Etta Eyong to remain until June. 

Talks with CSKA Moscow are already underway, and Levante are reportedly pushing for additional guarantees within the agreement.

One of Levante’s key demands is the inclusion of a specific termination clause for June. 

Barcelona are set to miss out on Etta Eyong. (Photo by Rafa Babot/Getty Images)

From the player’s side, Etta Eyong, 22, has always had a clear vision for his career. His preference was either to join Barcelona or secure a move to the Premier League. 

What now for Barcelona?

Notably, Barça’s interest is not new. Last summer, the Catalan club explored a potential deal. 

At the time, his release clause stood at €10 million, a figure considered reasonable. 

However, Barcelona’s financial restrictions prevented the operation from moving forward, and the opportunity slipped away.

Since then, Barça’s technical staff have continued to track his development closely. 

Although no formal bid has been made, the club remains fully informed about every step of the ongoing negotiations. 

If Levante and CSKA ultimately agree on a deal that sees Eyong sold immediately and loaned back until June, his entourage wants protection built into the contract. 

Specifically, they are pushing for an exit clause of around €40 million by June 30. That figure could represent excellent value depending on his performances during the final stretch of the season.