In a significant transfer deal worth 50.4 million euros ($55.2 million), Barcelona has agreed to transfer France forward Ousmane Dembélé to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The explosive winger’s arrival at PSG on a five-year contract coincides with rumors of Neymar’s potential departure and uncertainty surrounding the future of Kylian Mbappé.
Dembélé expressed his excitement about joining PSG, stating, “I’m delighted to be joining Paris Saint-Germain and can’t wait to play for my new club. I hope to continue growing here and make all the club’s fans proud.”
Born in Vernon outside Paris, the 26-year-old Dembélé began his football journey in the Rennes youth academy. He played for Borussia Dortmund during the 2016-17 season before moving to Barcelona in 2017 on a then club-record transfer. This move was initiated by Barcelona’s desire to find a promising young talent after Neymar’s unwanted exit to PSG.
Despite early injury setbacks at Barcelona, Dembélé proved himself to be one of the team’s indispensable players, leveraging his speed and playmaking abilities. He renewed his contract last summer and was set to remain at Barcelona until the end of the next season. Throughout his Barcelona tenure, Dembélé scored 62 goals in 185 appearances and contributed to the team’s success in winning three Spanish leagues and two Copa del Rey titles.
Now, Dembélé will have the opportunity to play under former Barcelona and Spain coach Luis Enrique at PSG.
Barcelona confirmed that Dembélé exercised a buyout clause in his contract to leave the club. Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández expressed his disappointment at Dembélé’s departure, acknowledging his contributions to the team.
This departure comes as Barcelona aims to reduce its debt and lower its wage burden. Raphinha, Ferran Torres, and Ansu Fati will remain as forwards to support star striker Robert Lewandowski.
Barcelona’s season begins with a match against Getafe in the Spanish league on Sunday.
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