Barcelona midfielder Pedri has refused to rule out playing in the Premier League in the future, paving the way for an exit from Camp Nou.
The Spanish international has been a key player for Barça since the age of 16 when he arrived from Las Palmas for a reported €5m. By the end of his debut season, the teenager had played 52 games in all competitions and played for Spain at Euro 2020 and the Olympics in one summer.
Such was his immense importance and potential that Barca was forced to tie him to a new long-term contract in the autumn of 2021. The contract raised his mandatory buyout clause to €1bn, just one year after Barca paid just €5m for his services.
Although Pedri has featured in fewer games this season than last year due to a series of injuries, he remains a vital part of Xavi’s midfield. The 20-year-old is sidelined with a thigh injury and has missed Barca’s last six fixtures in all competitions, including two huge games against Real Madrid.
Despite his massive release clause and injury issues, speculation about his future hasn’t ceased. As a player who isn’t from Catalonia or a graduate of the famed La Masia academy, Pedri is looked at as one who could easily leave Camp Nou. He has been linked with an exit in the past.
And the midfielder recently admitted he is not against testing himself outside of Spain, particularly in England.
Speaking to TCL via 90min, the youngster said;
“At the moment, no. I’m at Barça, and hopefully, I’ll stay here for many more years. I love La Liga, but nothing should ever be ruled out.”
Premier League big spenders Manchester City will be the obvious fit, not just because of Pep Guardiola, but also because of their playing style. The Cityzens share Barcelona’s core philosophies, with the hiring of former Barcelona vice-president Ferran Soriano as chief executive and former Barca director of football Txiki Begiristain as director of football in 2012, heralding the arrival of Barca-ball at City.
Arsenal is also a viable option for the youngster, given the Gunners’ playing style. At the same time, Liverpool is also a good option, given that the Reds are reportedly keen on the player.
