Barcelona’s financial situation reportedly means they can only approach to sign Celta Vigo forward Nolito on loan with the option to buy in January.
According to Mundo Deportivo, the Catalans remain very much interested in the 29-year-old but would put their finances at risk if they proceeded to meet the player’s €18m release clause.
Josep Maria Bartomeu’s board are committed to gradually lowering the debt ratio until 2018, but last season’s investment to secure the treble has put them behind schedule.
The problem of debt has returned since talks with Qatar Airways to renew their sponsorship collapsed in October, and a failure to lower the aforementioned ratio would result in the board’s dismissal.
Consequently, the newspaper claims Barca are ready to propose a loan deal until the end of the season in order to delay the payment of €18m.
The chances of Celta accepting these terms are understandably minimal, but Barca remain confident they can convince the Galicians into doing so.
Additionally, Barca are understood to only value Nolito at €9m, although Celta are believed to have made €18m in instalments their final offer.
Nolito, who was named in Spain’s squad for upcoming matches against England and Belgium, has reportedly received several offers, including three from the Premier League and one from Napoli.
An offer of an improved contract from Celta is also on the table.
