Joan Laporta speaks out on Ansu Fati future amid exit speculation

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has addressed the speculation linking young forward Ansu Fati with a move away from Camp Nou.

Following a promising start to his Barca career, the young prodigy has suffered a steep decline over the last couple of seasons due to injuries.

He is not among the first-choice options for Xavi, who prefers Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha and Gavi in attack, with the latter switching his position from midfield in the absence of Ousmane Dembele.

Fati has made 20 appearances in La Liga this season, of which only seven were starts. He has bagged three goals and three assists in all competitions.

Reports have emerged that the Spanish prodigy is unhappy with his reduced role and is open to leaving his boyhood club for regular football.

His agent Jorge Mendes is on the lookout for suitors, with Manchester United, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur expressing their interest in the La Masia graduate.

Laporta says he is aware of the interest in Fati but has no idea what the future holds for the player.

“We are not thinking of selling Ansu Fati as of now – he’s loved here – then I cannot predict the future, “ Laporta told the press (h/t Fabrizio Romano)

“His agent told us there are clubs keen on signing Ansu Fati, yes. It is clear that he wants to succeed here at Barça.”

Laporta also confirmed that Alejandro Balde – another Mendes client – has agreed to a contract extension pending final approval from La Liga regarding Financial Fair Play.