Barcelona open to forward’s January loan exit – La Liga rivals the likely destination

After a disappointing loan spell at Brighton & Hove Albion last season, Ansu Fati wanted to remain at FC Barcelona this summer in hopes of regaining his best form and competing for a starting position.

However, the statistics reveal a stark reality: the 21-year-old forward is the player with the least playing time on the roster, even trailing behind Pau Victor in minutes.

Indeed, since returning from a pre-season injury, Ansu has played only 28 minutes of football across two matches, while remaining an unused substitute in three games.

A loan move to Sevilla not ruled out

Now, according to SPORT, in the coming weeks, Barcelona and Fati will discuss the best solution, with a loan option to Sevilla already on the table for a six-month stint aimed at proving his value.

Barcelona showed full confidence in Ansu during pre-season, with coach Hansi Flick assuring him of a place in the squad.

But another injury and his lack of minutes since returning has made the attacker realise he could waste a year warming the benches.

Barcelona, for their part, are generally reluctant to part with players in January, particularly if they are not back to the 1:1 rule, which would severely limit their ability to sign new players. However, Fati’s situation is unique.

With a contract running until 2027, the Catalans recognise that a wasted season could severely diminish his value. Therefore, the aim is to find him a destination where he can feel like a key player, with plenty of time to act before January.

Garcia Pimienta the key?

Sevilla have again emerged as a promising option for Fati after a failed summer move. Indeed, discussions occurred over the summer, with the Andalusian outfit’s coach, Garcia Pimienta, reaching out to the Barcelona forward.

Their shared history in Barça’s youth setup allows for a mutual understanding, and the coach made it clear that Fati would be a fundamental part of his plans and could help him regain his best form.

Ultimately, a deal did not materialize then due to Barcelona’s firm stance and a low loan proposal.

Now, the circumstances have shifted. Ansu needs to play and find a comfortable environment in which to thrive. If the focus remains on sporting prospects, Sevilla stand to benefit significantly, as his family environment views it as the ideal destination.

Additionally, the forwards signed by the Andalusian team have yet to find their rhythm, leaving them in need of goals – something Ansu can deliver.

With discussions on the horizon, the next few weeks will be crucial in determining Fati’s immediate future.