Barcelona forced into tough decision as former youth team star with buyback clause begins to spark transfer noise | Barca Universal

"He joined Mallorca for a fee of €3.5 million in what turned out to be a bargain for them. After all, he has been in fine form this season for them. Virgili has already racked up five starts and eight appearances for Mallorca in La Liga and averages 57 minutes per game, earning the tag of a mainstay. He has provided two assists and created five big chances in that duration."

"As it stands, all parties are gaining from Virgili's time away from Barcelona. For Mallorca, the player is delivering at a level far beyond what they invested in, while Barcelona will be pleased with his development and improved market value as they retain 50% of the player's rights and thus any future transfer fee. Given Mallorca's situation in La Liga, however, SPORT confirm that the youngster is not expected to leave them in the winter transfer market despite having attractive proposals at his doorstep."

"While the player wishes to return to Catalonia and make his name, that appears unlikely given Barcelona's economic situation. At a time when the club are in need of registering income, 50% of the speculated €12 million Mallorca will make with his departure is a massive amount. Should Barcelona opt to use their right of first refusal, they will have to shell out an additional €3 million in addition to mathematically losing the fee they made through his departure. The situation, thus, is complicated."

Jan Virgili moved from Barcelona to Mallorca for €3.5 million and has performed strongly, recording five starts and eight La Liga appearances while averaging 57 minutes per game. He has provided two assists and created five big chances, becoming a key player for Mallorca. All parties benefit: Mallorca gains high performance for a low fee, and Barcelona retain 50% of his economic rights, increasing his market value. Mallorca are unlikely to sell in the winter as he helps their survival, but his departure in summer is expected amid interest from top European clubs and financial complexities around Barcelona's first-refusal option.

Read at Barca Universal