In-form LaLiga star ‘prioritising’ Barcelona transfer after summer talks

In-form Levante forward Karl Etta Eyong is ‘prioritising’ a move to Barcelona after holding talks with the Catalans in the summer, according to Spanish media.

The 21-year-old surprisingly left Villarreal in the summer transfer window after establishing himself as a regular starter in the opening games of the new LaLiga season.

Etta Eyong recorded a goal and two assists in the first three games of the season, which prompted Barcelona to explore a late-window move for the Cameroonian.

There was talk of the reigning LaLiga champions potentially paying as much as €10 million for the striker, although Barcelona were reportedly convinced that he could be available at a cheaper price.

Ultimately, the talks with the player came to nought as Barcelona did not have the necessary salary cap space to register another new signing, having already struggled to make the likes of Joan Garcia and Roony Bardghji eligible to play.

Etta Eyong back on Barcelona’s radar

Despite his talks with Barcelona failing, Etta Eyong still left Villarreal, joining Levante for a bargain €3m in what already looks like a brilliant piece of business.

The youngster has continued his red-hot form at his new club, scoring four times and adding one assist. All told, he has notched eight goal contributions in eight games so far this season.

According to Sport, Barcelona, who were monitoring him even before he turned up at Villareal, are still tracking the attacker and remain big fans of him.

What’s more, the discussions they had with him in the summer could serve as a trump card in the future. The outlet claims that Etta Eyong is ‘prioritising’ a move to Barcelona.

However, given that he has already played for two clubs this season, he could not suit up for Barcelona if he were to join in January. This deal is likely to be one for the summer, but it is too early to say if the Blaugrana will really return for him.

Etta Eyong’s new release clause now stands at €30m, while Villarreal boast a buy-back option. This summer, he would have been a bargain. Next summer, he is likely to be a significant investment, and Premier League suitors are better-placed to pay his new price than Barcelona.

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