Barcelona's Academy Goldmine Targeted: Ex-Transfer Boss Launches Bold Raid on Catalan Wonderkid
Ex-Barcelona sporting director and incoming Ajax sporting director Jordi Cruyff has allegedly given his future club "glowing assessments" of midfielder Marc Bernal, whom he considers would be an "ideal fit" for the 36-time Dutch title winners.
In September, Bernal signed a contract extension with Barcelona until 2029, pursuing his ambition to "continue claiming silverware with Barça for years to come." However, the 18-year-old has found himself amid transfer rumors this January, with several European teams showing interest in the La Masia talent.
Per SPORT, Ajax made inquiries about securing Bernal on loan until the season's conclusion. The Amsterdam-based club is "certain" the Spanish youngster would strengthen their midfield and enable the squad to make a "major leap forward" during their struggling domestic season.
Cruyff, set to begin his Ajax role on February 1st, allegedly spoke highly of Bernal, describing him as a player who could become an "automatic starter" at Ajax. Such a loan arrangement would provide the teenager with valuable experience and regular playing time to enhance his overall growth.
The Spanish publication reports that the Catalans have no intention of releasing—even on a temporary basis—Bernal, despite his limited game time this campaign. The La Masia graduate has only started three matches in 2025–26, with two occurring in the Copa del Rey.
Bernal's Progress at Barcelona Derailed Due to Injury
Bernal's Progress at Barcelona Derailed Due to Injury
Bernal, among the most promising talents to emerge from La Masia recently, sustained a serious ACL injury in August 2024, prematurely ending his 2024–25 season just as it was getting underway. The injury occurred at a particularly unfortunate moment, as the midfielder had featured in Barcelona's opening three league fixtures under Hansi Flick's inaugural campaign.
Bernal remained sidelined for the subsequent 382 days, undergoing an extensive rehabilitation process before finally returning to play in September 2025. He made a short appearance in the team's 6–0 victory against Valencia, recording an assist merely five minutes after entering as a substitute.
However, playing time and opportunities have remained scarce for Bernal in recent months. The club is undoubtedly taking a cautious approach with the gifted youngster, determined not to accelerate his return too hastily and risk another injury. The Catalans may no longer have that privilege, though.
With Pedri sidelined for at least four weeks, Flick might rely on Bernal significantly more in upcoming fixtures to help compensate for the absence of the Spain midfielder. Even if he doesn't start ahead of Dani Olmo or Marc Casadó, Bernal could still accumulate substantial minutes as a substitute to further his development, something his fellow La Masia alumnus Dro Fernández is seeking to accomplish elsewhere
La Masia Gems Being Poached Across Europe
La Masia Gems Being Poached Across Europe
Ajax's alleged pursuit of Bernal follows Dro's choice to depart the club during the January transfer window. The teenager is highly regarded by the organization, but he has featured in only five matches in 2025–26, leading to his wish to advance his career beyond Catalonia.
Sources suggest Dro is close to finalizing a deal with reigning European and French champions Paris Saint-Germain who, instead of activating the attacking midfielder's €6 million ($7 million) buyout clause, will pay a fee marginally higher than that amount at the player's behest—a gesture of respect toward his childhood club and a sum that still constitutes an excellent value for PSG.
Flick delivered a subtle criticism of the youngster following the anticipated exit and issued a caution to other La Masia prospects at the club. "If you aspire to represent Barca, you must commit everything ... 100%. That's my message to everyone currently with us or who might join us in the future.
"The same principle applies to La Masia youngsters training alongside the senior squad. They must be completely dedicated. These colors require defending, that's what I expect to witness. Regarding the others, I have no use for them."
The firm statement demonstrates how much the German manager appreciates the talent emerging from Barcelona's youth academy structure. Indeed, Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsí, Gavi, Alejandro Balde, Fermín López, Marc Casadó and Bernal all began their journeys at La Masia.
If other European clubs had recruited these standouts before they achieved prominence, the Catalans would field a dramatically different starting eleven. Flick and the organization remain committed to preventing this scenario with future stars, but players like Dro and Marc Guiu, who transferred to Chelsea last summer, might be more tempted to join a team offering better developmental opportunities.