Ansu Fati deal not done yet, says his father
Ansu Fati's move to Monaco is not finalized despite reports claiming otherwise. His father, Bori Fati, pushed back Tuesday: "It is not true that the deal has been finalized, things are not finished yet, it is still too early until June 30" (1). He added that "many clubs" are interested in the forward. Jorge Mendes is handling negotiations, with Deco and Hansi Flick waiting for clarity before Barcelona can plan the squad.
Araujo injured with Uruguay after Barça warnings ignored
Ronald Araujo picked up an injury while on international duty with Uruguay, and Barcelona are not happy. The club had warned Uruguay's staff about managing his workload, but those warnings went unheeded (2). He is now a doubt for Uruguay's World Cup opener. His brother Mikael Araujo didn't hold back: "Thanks for injuring players just days before the World Cup!" (2)
Saudi clubs ready to quadruple Raphinha's wages
Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr are preparing an €80m bid for Raphinha and are willing to quadruple his current salary (4). With Anthony Gordon already signed, Flick and the board may have a genuine decision to make. Raphinha has admitted he is not at full fitness ahead of the World Cup, which could factor into any move.
Bartomeu denies Negreira bribery allegations
Former Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu has denied that the club ever attempted to bribe referees in the ongoing Negreira case: "Barca never tried to bribe referees. I experienced this firsthand in 2014 as president, and as vice-president, I was aware of the existence of these reports" (3). The case remains a significant legal and reputational issue for the club.
Quick hits
Barcelona are scouting 18-year-old American centre-back Neil Pierre, who plays for Danish side Lyngby (5). The club continues its youth-focused recruitment policy. Manchester City are closing in on a contract extension for Josko Gvardiol, a player Barcelona have tracked, which would end any transfer hopes (6). Real Madrid are rumored to be considering a €150m raid on Barcelona for an unnamed player (7), while Atlético Madrid are also chasing a target that both Barça and Madrid want (8).
