Barcelona rule out summer move for La Liga striker with €30 million release clause | OneFootball

FC Barcelona have made it a priority to sign a new striker in the summer transfer window, with Robert Lewandowski likely to be on his way out.

The 37-year-old veteran star’s contract expires at the end of the season and a departure as a free agent seems likelier than the possibility of a renewal.

So, the Catalans intend to rope in a new centre-forward to replace the Pole, with Levante youngster Etta Eyong featuring among the shortlisted options.

No move for Etta Eyong

However, as per the latest update from SPORT, Barcelona have decided not to pursue the signing of Etta Eyong in the summer transfer window.

Barcelona enquired about the striker in the final days of the summer transfer window, but Villarreal held firm to a clause of €10 million and placed him at Levante with the intention of making a future profit.

At that stage, he was viewed as an attractive option for Barça due to the price and the possibility of developing between the reserve team and the first team, or alternatively going out on loan for a season.

Barcelona no longer pursuing Etta Eyong. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

At present, Barcelona do not deny Eyong’s progress and maintain a good relationship with his representatives. They are also aware that he would prioritise a move to Barcelona or to the Premier League.

However, the Blaugrana have now decided not to enter the bidding for the Cameroonian forward, fully aware that several English clubs could be willing to approach the €30 million release clause.

While Eyong was previously considered a low-cost option, the possibility of him moving to Camp Nou is now virtually ruled out. Barcelona are looking for a striker of the highest level, with far greater competitive experience.

Eyong’s camp is aware of the club’s position and is therefore listening to other offers, with CSKA Moscow in Russia also emerging as an option, along with clubs from the Premier League.