Barcelona plan to activate €7 million buyback option for ex-defender whom Xavi admires

With not much left to play for this season, FC Barcelona are already planning things for the next campaign, with the summer transfer window on the horizon.

There will be some exits for certain, while there is hope for making some big signings, provided the club reach the 1:1 rule for the summer.

At the same time, Barcelona also need to take a call on the players who are out on loan. While some like Clement Lenglet and Sergino Dest have no future, Eric Garcia would be welcomed by Xavi, although the player himself is uncertain about a return.

Chadi Riad to be re-signed?

Another player whom Barcelona are keeping a close watch on is Chadi Riad. On loan at Real Betis, the Moroccan international’s move will be made permanent due to a €3 million mandatory purchase clause.

However, according to SPORT, Barcelona have a buyback clause worth €7 million inserted in the agreement which they intend to activate this summer.

Barcelona plan to re-sign Riad. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

It is claimed that Xavi is an admirer of Riad and sees him as a ‘great centre-back’ with good ball control.

Given the impressive season that the La Masia ace has enjoyed with Los Verdiblancos, Barcelona intend to bring him back, in a deal that would essentially cost only €4 million.

Riad unlikely to stay

Even if Barcelona do end up triggering the repurchase clause for Riad, it is unlikely that the youngster will stay at the club.

The Blaugrana already are blessed with riches in the defensive department and there is unlikely to be much space for Riad if he does come back.

As such, the report states that Barcelona could plan to use the Moroccan as a makeweight in potential player exchange deals for one of their intended targets.