A substantial contract buyout clause could complicate Spanish handball club FC Barcelona’s immediate plans to sign highly-rated Portuguese player Francisco Costa, even as reports indicate strong interest.
Catalan newspaper ‘Sport’ reported Monday that Barcelona views the 20-year-old Costa as a key target for squad renewal.
Costa recently renewed his contract with Sporting until 2029.
The agreement includes a “one million euro” (approximately $1.075 million USD) release clause.
This clause is reported to decrease each subsequent season, potentially making a future transfer more feasible.
Barcelona is anticipating significant player departures, including French winger Dika Mem, who is reportedly heading to German club Füchse Berlin.
Costa has openly expressed admiration for Barcelona, according to ‘Sport’.
His recent move to Polaris Sports, an agency linked to prominent agent Jorge Mendes, is also noted as a factor that could facilitate a move.
Barcelona President Joan Laporta reportedly has strong ties with Mendes.