Barcelona defender Mikayil Faye now looks set to stay at the club, after nearing a move to Porto last week. The 19-year-old is set to be part of the Blaugrana plans next season under Hansi Flick.
Faye was heavily linked with a move to Porto, with a suggested fee of €15m for the Senegal international. He had reportedly given the green light, and looked set to boost the Barcelona accounts as they tackle salary limit issues. Yet MD now say that Faye has been told the move will not go through, and Flick will consider him part of the first-team squad next season.
Noah Darvich will do pre-season with the first team. @tjuanmarti
— barcacentre (@barcacentre) July 2, 2024
They go on to say that both Sporting Director Deco and Flick were reluctant to part with Faye, who impressed in 2024 with Barca Atletic. They value his skillset, but also his versatility, seeing that he can potentially act as a back-up for Alejandro Balde next season at left-back, as well as in central defence. Currently their only other alternatives are youngsters Hector Fort and Alex Valle.
Barcelona have also declared a desire to retain Joao Cancelo on loan from Manchester City, but it remains to be seen if they can agree a fresh deal with Pep Guardiola’s side. If Faye is to remain, it will put pressure on the futures of Eric Garcia and Inigo Martinez, as they have plenty of options in central defence.
