Former Barcelona President Reveals Club's Failed Pursuit of Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe
Vinicius and Mbappé at Barça? Bartomeu on talks
Espn
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Josep Maria Bartomeu, former president of FC Barcelona, disclosed that the club had an 'agreement in principle' to sign Brazilian winger Vinicius Junior before he joined Real Madrid. Bartomeu also mentioned interest in Kylian Mbappe during his time at AS Monaco, but financial pressures and player preferences led to missed opportunities.
- 01Barcelona had an initial agreement to sign Vinicius Junior before he chose Real Madrid.
- 02Vinicius opted for Madrid over Barcelona despite a better financial offer from the Catalan club.
- 03Bartomeu expressed interest in Kylian Mbappe during his time at AS Monaco.
- 04Financial pressures from Paris Saint-Germain influenced Mbappe's decision to join them instead of Barcelona.
- 05Barcelona was in a strong financial position during Bartomeu's presidency.
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Josep Maria Bartomeu, the former president of FC Barcelona, revealed that the club nearly secured Brazilian winger Vinicius Junior before he ultimately signed with Real Madrid in 2017. Despite Barcelona's financial offer being higher, Vinicius chose Madrid, citing better opportunities under then-coach Zinedine Zidane. Bartomeu confirmed that discussions took place with Vinicius's family and agents, leading to an 'agreement in principle.' Additionally, Bartomeu mentioned that Barcelona had interest in Kylian Mbappe during his tenure at AS Monaco, but financial demands from Paris Saint-Germain and Mbappe's preference for a French club hindered the potential transfer. Bartomeu emphasized that Barcelona was financially robust at the time, being the highest-earning club globally.
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