Barcelona defensive starlet likely to leave despite impressing Hansi Flick

Earlier this month, word had it that Barcelona had opted to keep Mikayil Faye at the club despite serious interest from FC Porto.

The young centre-back was said to have the board’s backing and has always been seen as a player with a very high ceiling.

The Athletic, however, reports a dramatic turnaround in the prodigy’s situation, perhaps driven by the club’s dire need for sales.

On his way out

According to reports from the English outlet, Faye is still expected to leave Barcelona this summer, contrary to previous reports over the past month.

Faye was said to be one of the players who impressed Hansi Flick the most in recent days, and with Ronald Araujo out injured for a prolonged period, his continued presence appeared to be a natural step.

Now, however, the tables have turned, and the club is willing to sell the player once more.

The Likely Destination

Mika Faye expected to leave Barcelona. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

As revealed earlier, Porto has been interested in securing Faye’s services for a long time now. With the doors in Catalonia reopening, they will be among the first to jump back in.

Talks between the two clubs have been held in the past, and an offer close to €15 million was expected in Porto’s first official bid.

Barcelona, given their need to generate revenue, will hope to negotiate a higher fee in the coming weeks.

It remains to be seen if they retain part of the player’s rights or maintain a buy-back clause.

Playing in the Primera Federacion last season, the Senegalese defender made 35 appearances for Barça Atletic and scored four goals in the process.

His defensive solidity was one of the key pillars in the team’s run to the doorstep of promotion.