Despite growing scepticism over Marcus Rashford’s potential permanent transfer from Manchester United, Barcelona is still searching for ways to bolster the left side in the summer. Potential targets for the Catalans include Jan Virgili of RCD Mallorca, Andreas Schjelderup of SL Benfica, and Victor Munoz of CA Osasuna.
Sporting director Deco’s shortlist for the left flank now appears to include another candidate. In fact, former winger Ez Abde, who is presently at Real Betis, is a target for Barcelona in order to bolster the left flank, according to ESPN.
In the summer of 2023, Abde, 24, signed a €7.5 million contract to join Betis after making 14 first-team appearances for Barcelona. As part of the Vitor Roque-Palmeiras transaction in January 2025, the Blaugrana paid up 30% of their original 50% potential sell-on fee for the Moroccan international.
The forward, who has made 32 appearances across all competitions this season and has nine goals and eight assists, is still worth 20% of any future transfers for Hansi Flick’s team.
Barcelona add former player to shortlist
Barcelona had kept two buy-back options for Abde as part of the 2023 deal with Betis. They will have to pay full price to bring him back to the Spotify Camp Nou, but they will still save 20% because of the rights they still have from last year’s renegotiated deal. However, these have both expired, with their ability to sign him for €20 million or €25 million having run out in 2024 and 2025, respectively.
In the upcoming weeks, it will be fascinating to observe if Barcelona becomes more interested in Abde. Although they could have to contend with competition from Paris Saint-Germain, who have also been connected to the Morocco international, he would be a great choice to compete with Raphinha.
The Manchester United loanee has a €30 million permanent buy option with the La Liga winners, which is good until June 15. Therefore, whether or not they choose to activate it will determine whether or not Abde is pursued throughout the summer.
