Barcelona transfer news: Adrien Rabiot deal moves closer as agent jets in for talks

The Paris Saint-Germain midfielder has been on Barca’s radar for several months, with the Spanish giants trying to acquire his services last summer.

Barca chiefs reignited their interest in the 23-year-old – who is out of contract in the summer – last week and are currently negotiating a deal with PSG.

And according to reports Rabiot’s proposed move to the Nou Camp has moved a step closer to coming to fruition.

Earlier today, French publication Paris United reported that Rabiot’s mother – who acts as his agent – has flown to Barcelona to negotiate personal terms with the La Liga outfit.

They also claim Rabiot’s move to the Catalan capital will take place this month and not in the summer as first discussed.

Rabiot’s deal with is said to be worth £9million-a-year, though it’s not known how long his contract will be.

It’s also claimed the France international will receive a £9million signing-on fee.

Rabiot’s mother, Veronique, announced her son’s intention to leave the Parc des Princes late last month during an interview on French radio station RTL, in which she claimed to have told PSG’s sporting director Antero Henrique of his desire for a new challenge last summer.

“During the transfer window of summer, I had told Mr. Henrique that I wanted that Adrien on the transfer list since Adrien wanted to leave the club and it was clearly said,” Veronique said.

“The club did not want to sell Adrien, there was a proposal from Barcelona during the transfer window.

“The club refused, the club has the full right to refuse, but we can not say he was not aware.

“The situation was the same four years ago. When Adrien was 19, he did not resist and signed an extension.

“Now he is 23. What he is doing now is buying his freedom.

“It is firm and definitive. It is impossible to go back.”

Barcelona confirmed their pursuit of Rabiot late last year when it was reported that they’d been in discussions with the player before he became eligible to speak to other clubs.

“FC  wish to address stories published in France regarding the signing of players from Paris Saint Germain, and make clear that they have not breached any rule in this regard,” a club statement read.

“The only contact made was during the month of August and one week ago.

“In both cases, this contact was made with PSG’s sporting management to show FC Barcelona’s interest in player Adrien Rabiot.

“FC Barcelona have always wanted to work with the utmost transparency in their dealings with PSG and with any other club.

“FC Barcelona refute the existence of any type of agreement with PSG player Adrien Rabiot.”