Barcelona’s young talent Mikayil Faye has become a hot commodity in the summer transfer window of 2024, with multiple clubs vying for his signature. Among the most serious contenders is Lille OSC, which has recently made an official offer to the Catalan giants.
Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano broke the news on Tuesday, revealing that Lille has entered the race for the 20-year-old Senegalese defender.
Lille, currently navigating the Champions League play-offs, is not alone in its pursuit. Stade Rennais has also tabled a bid, reportedly in the region of €10 million, along with a resale percentage of 20% to 25%.
“Lille and Rennes are leading the race since both clubs have sent official proposals to Barça in recent days,” Romano disclosed on his X account.
The interest in Faye doesn’t stop there. OGC Nice had previously shown intent but shifted their focus to alternative options. Meanwhile, AS Monaco and Turkish side Besiktas have also expressed a keen interest.
According to reports from Sport, Besiktas matched Rennes’ offer with their own €10 million bid.
However, Barcelona is likely to resist these advances, as the club had initially valued Faye at €15 million earlier in the summer.
Despite never having featured for Barcelona’s first team, Faye’s potential is evident.
The Senegalese international, who already boasts a cap and a goal for his national team, made significant strides last season with Barcelona’s reserve side in Spain’s third division.
His performances have clearly not gone unnoticed, with clubs across Europe eager to secure his services.
However, Barcelona is not ready to part with Faye without ensuring future benefits.
Romano reports that any deal will include a buy-back clause and a percentage on resale, conditions that are non-negotiable for the Blaugrana.
This strategy underscores Barcelona’s belief in Faye’s long-term potential and their desire to maintain a connection with the player, even if he departs Camp Nou this summer.
As the transfer window progresses, the tug-of-war for Faye’s signature is set to intensify.
With Lille and Rennes leading the charge, and other clubs like Monaco and Besiktas lurking in the background, Barcelona’s young defender is at the center of one of this summer’s most intriguing transfer sagas.
The coming days will be crucial in determining where Mikayil Faye’s future lies, and whether Barcelona can strike a deal that satisfies both their financial and sporting aspirations.
🚨🔴 EXCL: Lille have entered the race to sign Mika Faye from Barcelona by sending an official bid!
Lille and Rennes are leading the race as both clubs have sent official proposals to Barça in the recent days.
Barça will only let him to with buy-back clause and sell-on clause. pic.twitter.com/vT6q0X5fiz
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 20, 2024
