Barcelona attacker could leave in January, options will be evaluated next week

Returning to Catalonia from his role as the protagonist of the Dutch attack in the FIFA World Cup, the reality of Memphis Depay’s situation struck the player hard.

Talks of his departure were not surprising, for it was clear that Xavi Hernandez did not rate the winger highly in his system. Yet, in just a few weeks’ time, there is a conspicuous sense of urgency from the forward’s party.

According to reports from Gerard Romero, there is still a good chance that Memphis Depay leaves Barcelona this month. However, the options on the table will only be evaluated after the Supercopa de Espana later this week.

The Dutch international has been strongly linked with a move to the Premier League, with Manchester United said to be the biggest name in the race.

The journalist adds that the possible move to Old Trafford will depend on whether the departure conditions are agreed upon by all parties involved.

The biggest hurdle in the transaction is Depay’s stubbornness to leave on a free transfer. The Dutchman sees it as unfair that Barcelona make a profit on him after signing him as a free agent and was initially ready to run down his contract despite being on the sidelines.

With Erik Ten Hag’s side calling and a potential return to United on the line, the situation has changed dramatically. Depay’s move may not bring the biggest paycheck given his contractual situation, but every drop counts in Barcelona’s current financial situation.

Depay started the game against Intercity midweek and participated in 74 minutes on the field. In that duration, he recorded one blocked shot, hit the woodwork once and completed four key passes.