Barcelona academy forward Toni Fernandez turns to Venezia for next step

Barcelona are close to finalising the departure of academy graduate Toni Fernandez after the forward chose a move to Venezia, who have recently secured promotion to the Italian top flight.

Only a small number of final details remain before the transfer is completed, according to Spanish newspapers Sport and Mundo Deportivo. Fernandez had attracted offers from clubs in the Premier League and Bundesliga but has decided to continue his development in Italy.

The 18-year-old’s contract with Barcelona is due to expire next summer. He spent last season among the leading players for Barcelona Atletic before joining the first team for pre-season. However, he was unable to convince head coach Hansi Flick that he should be part of his plans for the senior campaign.

That prompted Fernandez to assess his options over the summer. His priority was to find a project that would provide him with the opportunity to play at a higher level, and Venezia’s proposal ultimately appealed more than those from England and Germany.

A desire to move to an environment where he could adapt more easily also influenced his decision. Aston Villa and Leeds were among the clubs interested in signing him, but the Italian club’s sporting project was considered a better fit by the player.

Toni Fernandez had previously been the subject of interest from several high-profile clubs. Juventus attempted to persuade him to join their long-term project, while Sergio Ramos’ project to take over Sevilla also included the Barcelona academy player among those who could eventually be promoted to the first team.

On that occasion, Fernandez chose to remain at Barcelona. His imminent move to Venezia now represents a significant change in direction as he seeks regular senior football and a clearer path into the professional game.

Guille’s future remains unresolved

Another Barcelona player, Guille, is facing a similar situation. Barcelona Atletic no longer matches his ambitions, while the depth of options available to Flick in midfield has made a first-team breakthrough difficult.

Barcelona had reached a verbal understanding with Guille over a contract extension, but negotiations stalled before the agreement could be completed. His future is therefore open, with interest coming from clubs in Spain and abroad.

Neither the player nor his representative has made a final decision. Guille’s contract contains a €20m release clause, although Barcelona recognise that any fee they could realistically receive would probably be lower.

That assessment is linked to the fact that his current deal runs until 2027, leaving the club with less negotiating leverage as the contract moves closer to its final year. Like Fernandez, Guille must now weigh the value of remaining within Barcelona’s system against the possibility of moving elsewhere to secure more consistent first-team opportunities.