Barcelona close to acquiring Slovak star? Terms agreed, situation still unclear. But his qualities are known in Madrid, says agent

They said it looked like it was all done. Barcelona could have the Slovakian international in their squad. But at the moment the situation is uncertain. At least that’s what the agent says. But nothing is definite.

In January 2020, the Slovak football public rejoiced at an interesting transfer. Midfielder Stanislav Lobotka followed in the footsteps of Marek Hamsik and headed to Naples, where his compatriot has become an indelible legend.

The Campania side paid over €20 million for him at the time. But it took some time for the Slovakian international to catch on. His overweight was written about, his performances were criticised. But he gradually worked his way up to become one of the key players and best midfielders in Serie A, the top Italian league.

Lobotka was one of the main architects of the highly successful 2022/23 season, when Napoli won the title. It was then that speculation began that Barcelona were interested in the player. However, the Partenopei, as usual, did not want to hear about the sale of their key player.

Barcelona, however, have not stopped being interested in his services until now. Or at least until recently. At least, that’s what the player’s agent Branislav Jarušek revealed, who revealed that almost everything has been agreed with the Blaugranas regarding the potential transfer.

Will Barcelona buy Lobotka?

“We had already agreed on the terms with Barcelona, but then there was a change. Xavi was replaced by Hansi Flick as coach. In addition, Barcelona is in financial difficulties and the situation is unclear,” Football-Italia quotes agent Branislav Jarusek.

“However, the negotiations are not over yet. The situation is developing. Every club is aware of Lobotka’s qualities. They know about them in Barcelona, Madrid, but also in England. Moreover, Stanislav can return to Naples and everyone will be happy. Now it is the most likely option,” Jarušek is clear.

“Then Naples won’t let one of their best players leave. It would be an expensive purchase. But some coaches are looking for such a midfielder and I am talking to them,” added Lobotka’s agent.

Lobotka, by the way, is under contract with Vesuvius until 2027. At 29, he could be thinking about perhaps the last big transfer of his career. But Napoli is trying to keep more stars. There is also interest in Victor Osimhen, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo.

Source: Football-Italia, Transfermarkt