Barcelona's Rising Star Dro Fernandez Set to Shock Fans with Move to European Powerhouse
Barcelona prospect Dro Fernández is allegedly nearing a deal with Paris Saint-Germain following his announcement of wanting to depart the Catalan club.
The 18-year-old creative midfielder, who enjoys high regard internally, stunned Barcelona with his recent choice to reject a contract extension and instead seek an exit this month. A buyout clause worth €6 million (£5.2 million, $7 million) renders Barcelona unable to prevent Dro's departure.
This came as a crushing blow for Barcelona and head coach Hansi Flick, who has given Dro five outings in all tournaments this campaign, and reports of a potential transfer to PSG will certainly cause further frustration.
Fabrizio Romano suggests Dro is nearing personal terms with the Parisian club, who are ahead of English and German rivals due to manager Luis Enrique's involvement.
When questioned about pursuing Dro, Enrique chose to remain secretive. "I don't know, I don't answer," he responded.
Europe's Elite Chasing Huge Bargain
Europe's Elite Chasing Huge Bargain
Dro shone during Barcelona's summer preparations and, having already achieved his first-team debut this season, appeared destined for a promising future at Barcelona, who made significant efforts to retain him.
Negotiations regarding a fresh contract and higher release clause took place but couldn't reach an agreement before Dro celebrated his 18th birthday this month, allowing him to select from numerous top-tier clubs willing to pay merely €6 million for his talents.
Beyond PSG, clubs like Chelsea and Manchester City have been mentioned as potential destinations, while AS identified Borussia Dortmund as frontrunners before the European titleholders entered the picture.
Dro is thought to have grown worried about his first-team opportunities as an attacking midfielder, considering Dani Olmo and Fermín López both rank above him currently, and has concluded that leaving Camp Nou would benefit his development.
The announcement caught Barcelona completely off guard, as they feel Dro has simply shown insufficient patience required for a genuine senior breakthrough. Comparisons to striker Marc Guiu's €5 million move to Chelsea in 2024 have been made.