Barcelona have rejected an opening offer from Paris Saint-Germain for Spain midfielder Ferran Torres, insisting the proposed €40m package, including €10m in add-ons, falls well below their valuation of the 26-year-old.
The offer was received by Barcelona on Monday and has been turned down because the Catalan club expects a significantly higher fee before considering the sale of the Spain international.
According to Catalan newspaper Mundo Deportivo, Paris Saint-Germain’s proposal was worth €40m in total, with €10m of that figure linked to variables. Barcelona believe the amount does not reflect Torres’ market value and are not prepared to give the move their “final approval” unless their financial expectations are met.
Torres has reportedly already agreed personal terms with Paris Saint-Germain and is keen to complete a move to the French club as soon as possible. However, sources within Barcelona say the club will retain control of the negotiations until it receives an offer it considers appropriate for a player they regard as a valuable asset in the European market.
Barcelona’s position is based partly on Torres’ performances for Spain at the most recent World Cup, where he was described as a key figure in the team that won the tournament. His international experience, current age and standing with the national side are also being used by the club to support a higher asking price.
The opening proposal is nevertheless viewed as a normal starting point in negotiations. Paris Saint-Germain are expected to improve their offer gradually as they attempt to secure Torres’ signing, particularly with the summer transfer window moving towards its closing date.
Further discussions between the two clubs are expected in the coming days. The negotiations will focus on narrowing the gap between Paris Saint-Germain’s initial valuation and the fee Barcelona believe reflects Torres’ technical level, international record and wider market value.
Paris Saint-Germain are seeking to strengthen their squad with players who have substantial experience in European football before the new season begins. Torres’ existing agreement on personal terms means the French club has already made progress on the player’s side of the proposed transfer, but an agreement between the clubs is still required.
Barcelona, meanwhile, are under no obligation to accept the first bid and are expected to wait for a revised offer. Their refusal reflects the belief that Torres is worth considerably more than the current proposal, leaving Paris Saint-Germain to decide whether to increase the guaranteed fee or improve the overall package through additional payments.
The next stages of the talks are therefore likely to determine whether the transfer can be completed quickly or whether the difference in valuation leads to further negotiations between Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain.
