Renato Sanches reveals how close he was to signing with Barcelona

The last transfer window went down as one of the most economical pieces of business that Barcelona had ever pulled off. The club signed the likes of Memphis Depay, Kun Aguero and Eric Garcia on free transfers, but there was one department that the Blaugranas failed to reinforce.

Though Barcelona led the race to sign Georginio Wijnaldum, a last-minute offer from PSG triggered a change in heart for the midfielder. That said, Barcelona’s desire to sign a physical presence in midfield went unsatiated.

One of the names linked with the club in the window was that of Renato Sanches. The Portuguese midfielder was the centre of attention at Lille in Ligue 1, where he earned his starting spot.

The young player could not only bring a lot of progressive passes to the team but was also great in the defensive aspect. That said, Barcelona were interested in his signing until however, he was injured and had to undergo surgery.

The midfielder spoke about this earlier this week. “If it wasn’t for my injury, I would have signed for Barça this summer,” Sanches said, displaying how advanced the negotiations were between the two teams. (h/t Lavoix Dunord)

The 24-year-old was also linked to a move to Liverpool, but the Reds too jumped out of the race after his injury. The Portuguese international is now fit and raring to go, and looks set to push through a move away from Lille this summer.

The midfielder has one assist to his name so far this season while averaging three dribbles and six duels won per 90 minutes.