Barcelona tracking Morocco striker Yassir Zabiri after prolific Racing Santander start

FC Barcelona are monitoring Yassir Zabiri after the Morocco international made an impressive start to his loan spell at Racing Santander.

The 21-year-old striker has scored eight goals in 10 matches in the Spanish league, attracting attention with his efficiency in front of goal and his quick adaptation to Spanish football.

According to Fichajes, Barcelona sporting director Deco is following Zabiri’s performances closely as the Catalan club considers attacking options for future transfer windows. His age, goalscoring record and experience in Spain are understood to have contributed to the interest.

Zabiri joined Racing Santander on loan from Stade Rennais, with the agreement running until June 2027. The deal does not include an option to buy, meaning Stade Rennais retain control over the player’s long-term future.

Rising transfer value

Zabiri’s form has also led to a sharp increase in his estimated market value. Stade Rennais signed him from Famalicao for about 10 million euros, while his current valuation is understood to be close to 20 million euros.

That rise reflects the impact of his performances since moving to Spain. Any potential move to Barcelona would come with increased competition from other interested clubs and higher financial demands.

The striker’s release clause is reportedly above 20 million euros, a figure that could make negotiations more difficult for his suitors if he continues to score at his current rate.

Racing Santander are also seeking to plan for the next stage of the player’s situation, according to exclusive information from Africafoot. However, the Spanish club face growing competition, particularly from England.

Ipswich Town and Leeds United are both said to be closely interested in the Morocco international, again according to Africafoot.

Barcelona interest may wait until 2027

Stade Rennais remain in a strong position because Zabiri’s contract with the French club runs until 2029. The available information indicates that he cannot be recalled before the end of the current season, while Racing Santander’s loan remains in place until 30 June 2027.

If the forward maintains his current form, his profile could become even more prominent during the next transfer windows. Barcelona may assess the possibility of pursuing him in summer 2027, when his loan spell in Santander is due to finish.

No transfer has been agreed, but eight goals in 10 matches have given Zabiri a significant platform in Spain. Barcelona will now have to decide whether to act, while other interested clubs may attempt to move first.

Racing Santander’s next fixture in the Spanish league is against Real Madrid in their 11th match of the season.