Brighton & Hove Albion are closing in on a surprise move for Barcelona forward Ansu Fati after striking an agreement over a loan deal, claims Fabrizio Romano.
It will be a season-long loan with no buy option included. The Seagulls will cover a large portion of the Spaniard’s salary as per Barca’s demands.
The 20-year-old will undergo medical tests and sign his new contract with Brighton on Thursday.
Tottenham Hotspur were leading the race for Fati, but the Seagulls have taken everyone by surprise.
Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi has played a pivotal role in convincing the Spanish forward over a move.
Despite being initially reluctant to leave his boyhood club, Fati has changed his decision to continue his development elsewhere.
Barca will shift their attention towards Joao Felix as they believe Fati’s departure could facilitate the arrival of the Atletico Madrid star.
The Catalan giants will try to resolve their issues with Financial Fair Play to get the green light for Joao Cancelo’s arrival and further signings.
Brighton have undoubtedly made a statement signing with Fati at the end of the transfer window.
The Spaniard has seen ups and downs early in his career, but he is regarded as one of the finest young talents in Europe.
Fati can develop his game to newer heights under De Zerbi and help Brighton achieve their ambitions this season.
The La Masia graduate will join the long list of summer signings at Brighton, which includes Mahmoud Dahoud, James Milner, Carlos Baleba, Igor, Bart Verbruggen, Joao Pedro and Adrian Mazilu.
