Agent of Italian international confirms January Barcelona approach
The agent of on-loan AS Roma star Nicolo Zaniolo has revealed that one of European football’s most prestigious clubs expressed a keen interest in his client during the winter transfer window.
The outfit in question? Barcelona.
For those not aware, attacking midfielder Zaniolo sealed a surprise exit from the Stadio Olimpico earlier this year.
On the back of a hit-and-miss opening half to the campaign, the 23-year-old was afforded a loan exit, linking up with Turkish heavyweights Galatasaray for the remainder of the term.
His time in the Super Lig, though, has since proven equally underwhelming, en route to just a solitary league start.
But, as alluded to above, had another suitor had their way, then Zaniolo’s season could have unfolded altogether differently.
Speaking to Spanish outlet Relevo, Claudio Vigorelli confirmed that Zaniolo ‘was on Barcelona’s list’, only for the ongoing financial concerns at the Camp Nou to put an end to any prospective transfer:
Nicoló Zaniolo’s agent Vigorelli: “He was on Barcelona list on January, it’s true — they appreciated him but unfortunately it was not possible to proceed due to financial reasons”. 🇮🇹 #FCB
“He needed to change air, he’s happy at Galatasaray”, tells @relevo. pic.twitter.com/QwtFuFbqXl
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 30, 2023
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