Barcelona monitor Morocco striker Yasser Zabiri after prolific start for Racing Santander

Morocco forward Yasser Zabiri has emerged as a target for Barcelona after making an impressive start to the Spanish league season with Racing Santander.

The 21-year-old has scored eight goals in 10 league appearances, performances which have attracted the attention of Barcelona sporting director Deco, according to Spanish newspaper Fichajes.

Zabiri is currently playing for Racing Santander on loan from French club Stade Rennais, with the agreement running until June 2027. His market value is estimated at about €20m.

His age, goalscoring record and ability to adapt to Spanish football are understood to be among the reasons he has been identified as a possible option to strengthen Barcelona’s attack.

Zabiri scored his latest goal against Espanyol, helping Racing Santander to a 2-1 victory and ending a run of matches without a win for the club.

He also found the net at Spotify Camp Nou when Racing Santander were beaten 7-2 by Barcelona. The goal fulfilled one of his ambitions, having supported Barcelona and watched their matches during his childhood.

Contract situation complicates potential move

Deco’s interest is thought to extend beyond Zabiri’s footballing qualities and scoring figures. His rapid rise in value could also make him an attractive investment for Barcelona.

Stade Rennais signed the striker from Famalicao for about €10m, but his performances in Spain have since almost doubled his estimated market value to around €20m.

However, any club attempting to sign him would face several contractual obstacles. Racing Santander have him on loan until 30 June 2027, but do not have an option to buy him permanently.

Zabiri’s contract with Stade Rennais runs until 2029, while his release clause is worth more than €20m. That gives the French club control over his future and means Racing Santander cannot bring him back early during the current season.

The arrangement is therefore likely to limit the possibility of Barcelona making a move in the winter transfer window.

Zabiri has previously spoken publicly about his admiration for Barcelona and his childhood habit of following the club’s matches. His profile rose further after he finished as top scorer at the Under-20 World Cup, which Morocco won last year.

That achievement helped draw Stade Rennais’ attention and contributed to the club’s decision to sign him from Famalicao.

Barcelona could consider pursuing the forward in the summer of 2027 if he maintains his current scoring form.