Transfer Market: Almost Joined FC Porto in Summer, Went to Barça, But Now Back in Contention

Despite being considered a future prospect for Barcelona, Roony Bardghji's lack of playing time is attracting interest from several European clubs, including FC Porto. The Catalan club now faces a decision on whether to keep, loan out, or transfer the young Swedish winger, whose future is expected to be decided before the World Cup, according to Sport. The Dragons were close to signing him in the summer, but Barça intervened and won the race.

Signed last summer for three million euros, as he was nearing the end of his contract with Copenhagen, Bardghji was seen as one of the most promising wingers on the market. However, his development might be at risk due to limited opportunities in the first team. The Swedish international has only played 616 minutes this season, almost completely disappearing during the crucial phase of the campaign.

Bardghji has publicly expressed his frustration during a Swedish national team camp, stating he felt he deserved more playing time at Barcelona. However, his complaints had no effect, and the lack of competitive rhythm had consequences, such as being left out of the squad and on the bench for Sweden's decisive World Cup qualifier, with the national coach preferring players with more minutes under their belts.

Given this situation, loan and transfer proposals have already started reaching the club and his inner circle. FC Porto, Monaco, and Stuttgart are three of the clubs that have inquired about the player's situation. While Barcelona understands Bardghji's position, their initial intention is not to facilitate his departure.

Internally, Barcelona remains confident in the player's potential and deems him fit to stay with the squad, praising his performance and professionalism. As a contributing player with a modest impact on the wage bill, the club's preference is for him to remain next season, provided he is willing to accept a secondary role.

Bardghji's desire is to succeed at Barcelona, the same source reports, but his wish for a more prominent role could lead to a re-evaluation of his future. A final meeting with his representatives is scheduled to discuss all options. The club wants him to stay but will not stand in his way if the player requests to leave.

Despite his limited usage, Bardghji's market value has more than doubled. However, Barcelona would only consider a loan move, as the investment in the Swede, personally championed by Deco, is viewed as a long-term project. The time has now come to decide what is best for the footballer's career, who, incidentally, has integrated well into the locker room.