Barca Chief Says Man Utd’s $111M Target Will Play For Nou Camp Side For 'Rest Of His Life'

FC Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu has claimed that Ansu Fati, who is being chased by Manchester United in the ongoing summer transfer market, will play for the Catalans for the rest of his career.

The 17-year-old forward, who recently rose to ranks from Barcelona’s academy La Masia to their first team, has scored eight goals in 32 competitive appearances this season. Although Bartomeu in a recent interview has denied Barcelona have received an official bid for the teenager, it was reported earlier the Catalans rejected a $111 million from Man Utd for Fati.

In an exclusive interview with the Spanish media outlet SPORT, Bartomeu has said Barcelona will not let Fati go even if his release clause of $476 million is triggered. The Barca chief has affirmed that the club won’t sell Fati even if his transfer solved some part of their financial crisis infused by the coronavirus pandemic.

As Bartomeu accepted that Barcelona are struggling financially, he has confirmed that they are looking to offload several players and not make any big purchases during the summer window.

The SPORT report has further disclosed that the club has informed Fati’s representatives about their decision to not sell him. "I haven't spoken to him personally but I have with his representatives. I've told them that regardless of the offers that come in, the club doesn't intend to negotiate with anyone. We want to aid his development and extend his time here so that he plays at Barça for the rest of his life," said Bartomeu in the same interview.

While Fati’s current contract is with their B-side, his recent excellent performances are set to be rewarded as Barcelona are preparing a new contract for the Spain Under-21 player.

When asked if Barcelona are seeing Fati as their future captain, Bartomeu said, "He's 17-years-old and we don't want to put that pressure on him. Right now, he needs to play and train with the best and be decisive in some matches. But without pressure. He's adjusting to the team and his role will be decided when the time comes. Right now, it's too soon."