Valencia in talks to sign former Barcelona midfielder on loan

Barcelona’s first team has always been the ideal home for La Masia graduates. While some students of the Catalan academy have gone on to succeed at other clubs, it is a rare occurrence.

Ilaix Moriba left Barcelona in the summer of 2021 after the club refused to meet his high wage demands. Instead of understanding Barcelona’s financial crisis, the youngster decided to join RB Leipzig who offered a larger wage.

However, Moriba now regrets his decision. As has been the case with many La Masia talents at foreign clubs, he has not had regular minutes under his belt. He has only played two Bundesliga games this season, with a cumulative thirty minutes of game-time.

According to reports from Fabrizio Romano, Valencia have asked for Moriba on loan. Talks are ongoing between the two clubs over the salary coverage, and there is still a gap between their positions.

Last season, Moriba was a regular player under Ronald Koeman at Barcelona. He was promoted to the first team ahead of the likes of Nico and Gavi. In fourteen games for the Catalans, Moriba provided two assists while scoring one goal.

Now, the player is close to returning to La Liga after a disastrous spell in Germany. One cannot help but think how different the player’s situation would have been, had he chosen to stay over a few extra Euros.

Now, Barcelona have a new generation of midfielders who have taken over his spot. The club, under President Joan Laporta has been firm about only retaining players who are committed about the project, and Moriba thought otherwise. As Laporta said in August,

“If a player does not want to renew, there are other options. It feels bad, but the club is above all. Whoever wants to go is free to do so.”