Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed that Ferran Torres is set to join Barcelona next month.
The Blaugrana are in advanced negotiations with the Cityzens over a transfer, and a deal is close to completion.
The Catalan giants plan to pay an initial fee of around €55 million with a further €10m in the form of add-ons.
An announcement is on the horizon, and Guardiola has said he is happy for the Spain international.
The Cityzens boss also confirmed the club won’t be bringing in a new striker to fill the void.
He said: “No, we are not going to bring in a striker. I hear it was very close, but I have not heard from my club that it is already done – nothing official.
“They are negotiating. When the club confirm, it’s done. If you want to leave because you will be happier in another place, you have to go.
“The career for a football player is short. If he wants to leave, and the clubs have an agreement, I am happy for him.”
Football Today verdict:
Torres has been a quality signing for the Cityzens, registering 20 goal contributions from just 43 appearances.
Despite the impressive showing, he has not always been a regular for them. The Spaniard has made 11 substitute appearances. He has also been an unused substitute regularly.
It is not surprising that he wishes to move on. Torres has a long-term ambition of playing for Barcelona, who remain a big attraction despite their recent financial troubles.
His arrival may coincide with several high-profile exits. La Liga have placed wage restrictions on the club, and they may need to sell players to compensate for Torres’ registration.
Meanwhile, the Cityzens have done a good piece of business with Torres. He was signed for just €20m from Valencia last year. They look set to make a significant profit from his exit.
