Al-Nassr Reportedly Interested in Barcelona Midfielder Marc Bernal
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Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr is reportedly monitoring Barcelona midfield talent Marc Bernal, with a potential late move under consideration, according to Okaz sports. However, Barcelona views the 18-year-old as a key part of their future plans and is unlikely to entertain offers, particularly given recent injuries within the squad.
Bernal’s journey at Barcelona
Marc Bernal is a highly-rated product of Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy. He made his first-team debut under former manager Hansi Flick last season, signaling the club’s faith in his potential. however, his progress was significantly hampered by a serious anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury sustained just three games into the current campaign.
The ACL rupture sidelined Bernal for over a year, delaying his growth and preventing him from contributing to the first team. He is now nearing a full recovery and is expected to return to the Barcelona squad for their match against Valencia after the international break.
Al-Nassr’s Interest and Previous Business with Barcelona
Al-Nassr has already demonstrated a willingness to acquire players from Barcelona this summer, having successfully signed defender Iñigo Martínez. Transfermarkt confirms the move.The Saudi club appears to be actively strengthening its squad with established and promising talent.
However, securing Bernal will likely prove more difficult. Barcelona considers him an integral part of their long-term strategy, especially in light of injuries to key midfielders Gavi and Frenkie de Jong. ESPN reported on Gavi’s ACL injury in September 2023, and Reuters covered de Jong’s ankle injury in November 2023.These injuries highlight the need for depth and quality in Barcelona’s midfield.
Why Barcelona is Unlikely to Sell
Barcelona’s reluctance to sell Bernal stems from several factors:
* High Potential: Bernal is widely regarded as one of the most promising talents to emerge from la Masia in recent years.
* Squad Depth: The injuries to Gavi and Frenkie de Jong have created a need for reliable midfield options.
* Managerial Confidence: hansi Flick clearly sees Bernal as a valuable asset and intends to integrate him into the first-team setup.
Key Takeaways
* Al-nassr is interested in signing Barcelona midfielder Marc Bernal.
* Bernal is recovering from a year-long absence due to an ACL injury and is expected to return to action soon.
* Barcelona is unlikely to sell Bernal, viewing him as a crucial part of their future plans, especially given recent injuries to key players.
* Al-Nassr recently signed Iñigo Martínez from Barcelona, demonstrating a willingness to do business with the Catalan club.
The situation will be closely monitored as the transfer window progresses, but as it stands, Bernal appears set to remain at Barcelona and continue his development with the Spanish giants.