Laporta happy with transfers so far: “World-class players prioritise Barcelona”

Speaking at the launch of Barça Vision, Barcelona president Joan Laporta expressed his pleasure at how things were going for the club in the transfer market so far.

The Blaugrana missed out on the signing of former captain and club legend Lionel Messi, who opted to move to Inter Miami instead.

However, despite faltering in their pursuit of the Argentine, Barcelona have closed the capture of Inigo Martinez on a free transfer while also signing 18-year-old defensive prodigy Mikayil Faye.

And, earlier today, the Catalan heavyweights also sealed the signing of Manchester City captain Ilkay Gundogan on a free transfer. The 32-year-old will join the La Liga champions on a two-year contract with an option for an additional twelve months.

During his media appearance, Laporta was asked about the signing of Gundogan, to which he responded with a giant thumbs-up.

And when asked about the club’s transfer plans heading into the summer, the Barcelona supremo was pleased how things were going for them, stating that top players continue to wish to join the Blaugrana.

“The market is responding adequately. It is responding well and that’s as far as I can read…. I have to tell you that world-class players continue to prioritise coming to Barça,” Laporta said, as quoted by SPORT.

With the signing of Gundogan now in the bag, Barcelona will shift their focus to getting the deal for Vitor Roque across the line. An agreement has been reached with Athletico Paranaense over a transfer worth €35 million plus €10 million in variables.

A top pivot midfielder also continues to be a priority for the La Liga champions as they look to replace departing captain Sergio Busquets before the start of the new season.