NXGN 2025: Football's 50 best teenage wonderkids

World Cup or bust: Tuchel picks a symptom of FA short-termism

The day Man Utd fans stopped football 

NXGN 2025: Football's 25 best women's wonderkids

Lamine Yamal: Best teenage footballer the world's ever seen

Editors' Picks

President Ronaldo! CR7 told ‘he would win’ vote in Portugal

‘Sad’ Messi breaks silence on withdrawal from Argentina squad

Mbappe admits he's 'trying' to avoid Zidane

Mbappe opens up on 'complicated' relationship with Griezmann 

How much does Lamine Yamal earn per week at Barcelona?

Guler given brutal Modric '70 grandchildren' putdown by reporter

'Doesn't mean I'm bigger!' - Mbappe reacts to surpassing Ronaldo

Article continues belowArticle continues belowArticle continues below<script type="application/json" data-placement="match-schedule">{"type":"match-schedule","data":{"competitionId":"34pl8szyvrbwcmfkuocjm3r6t"}}</script><script type="application/json" data-placement="fcplayer-semantic">{"type":"fcplayer-semantic","data":{"embedCode":"//cdn.fcp.codes/embed-code-template/embed-code-template.js#SEMANTIC_5704afb8-c10b-4ba5-9cb4-d7fb6098ef90"}}</script><ul><li>Arteta keen to strengthen Arsenal's backline </li><li>Barcelona have put a €15million (£12 million) price tag </li><li>La Liga giants also want a buy-back clause in the contract </li></ul>

Arsenal contact Barcelona about possible move for centre-back after transfer collapses

LaLiga

Barcelona

Osasuna

Premier League

Arsenal

Fulham

According to <a href="https://www.hitc.com/arsenal-enquire-about-hijacking-move-for-super-calm-barcelona-ace-after-move-to-porto-stalls/" target="_blank">HITC</a>, the Gunners have reportedly got in touch with Barcelona to explore the possibility of acquiring their <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/lists/barcelona-talks-porto-over-deal-to-sell-mikayil-faye-will-leave-one-condition/blt59b72631fe18bb5f" target="_blank">promising teenage centre-back, Mikayil Faye</a>. This move comes after Faye's anticipated transfer to FC Porto hit a snag.

WHAT HAPPENED?

The Senegalese defender had been on the verge of joining FC Porto, with the Portuguese club and Faye agreeing on personal terms. However, the deal has stalled due to Barcelona's insistence on a €15 million (£12 million) fee, coupled with a buy-back clause. This clause has been a sticking point, causing delays and opening the door for Arsenal to make their move. Despite Arsenal's interest, securing Faye's signature is not straightforward. Barcelona's demands, particularly the buy-back clause, are a major hurdle. The Catalan club is keen to retain some control over Faye's future, reflecting their belief in his potential. Moreover, his status at Arsenal will be that of a squad player, whereas, Barcelona want guaranteed first-team action to facilitate his development.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Last season, Faye showcased his talent with <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/lists/liverpool-man-utd-set-battle-over-barcelona-mikayl-faye-catalan-giants-want-him-first-team-next-season/blte97b0c30d389d0e6" target="_blank">Barcelona Athletic, the club's B team, where he made 35 appearances</a>. Predominantly playing as a left-sided centre-back, Faye's performances have caught the attention of scouts across Europe. His ability to read the game, combined with his composure on the ball, marks him as a player with significant potential.

DID YOU KNOW?

While the transfer window is still open, it remains to be seen whether Arsenal and Barcelona can reach an agreement that satisfies both parties. Currently, it seems to be a difficult proposition as the two clubs have a gulf in their respective aspirations.

WHAT NEXT FOR FAYE?

Arsenal contact Barcelona about possible move for centre-back after transfer collapses  | Goal.com

Arsenal have reportedly contacted Barcelona about a possible move for their teenage centre-back after his transfer to FC Porto collapsed.

Next matches