Barcelona’s option of Fluminense’s Gerson could prove pivotal in their attempts to take Paul Pogba away from Juventus.
Mundo Deportivo reports Barca are leading the way in the chase for the France international, ahead of Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City, thanks in large part to Ariedo Braida’s good relationship with the Old Lady and Pogba’s agent, Mino Raiola.
Juventus are however keen on Gerson, Flu’s 18-year-old starlet, and a player they are looking at to potentially replace Pogba in the long-term.
Barca hold first option on Gerson until 2019 after La Blaugrana paid €3.6m for the rights to his transfer. The agreement sees Barca with the option to match any offer made for Gerson.
Gerson’s father recently met with the Barca high command and a deal was signed there and then, with a representative of Fluminense also present.
Barca could use Gerson as a bargaining chip for Pogba, MD report, and his €20m valuation could be deducted from whatever Barca eventually pay for Pogba.
Juventus’ interest in Gerson is known to both his current club and the player and he could be sent to Turin to help Barca land Pogba.
MD also note that Gerson isn’t the only player Barca hold first option on, as they have agreements in place for forward Kenedy and central defender Marlon.
