FC Barcelona Has Once Again Been Strongly Linked to Kevin Durant's Future. The NBA star has been leaving the door open for years to play in Europe, and the blaugrana club remains on his radar.
Since 2019, when Durant confessed to Serge Ibaka that he would like to play his last year at Barça, the blaugrana fans have been dreaming of seeing him at Palau blaugrana. At 36 years old, he continues to perform at the highest level with the Phoenix Suns, but his retirement in the EuroLeague remains an option.
Now, at the NBA All-Star, the forward has spoken about the topic again. In his words, he doesn't rule anything out.
Durant Mentions Barça
Kevin Durant was asked about the possibility of playing in Europe before retiring. His response left the doors open but without confirming anything:
"Is that still possible? I don't know, man. Right now I doubt it. I'm playing in the NBA, but I love the EuroLeague too."
Then, when asked if Barça would be a good option, Durant didn't hesitate:
"It would be, and Monaco would be a good place too."
The forward's words generate excitement at Barça, although the mention of AS Monaco also raises doubts. Durant has a great friendship with Mike James, a former NBA player and current star of the French team.
Durant's Contract and the Possibility of His Signing
Durant is under contract with the Phoenix Suns until 2026, but his future with the franchise is not assured. The Suns don't plan to renew him and could trade him this summer to avoid losing him for free.
Barça, with its new contract with Nike, has the financial leeway to make an offer. However, the only way for Durant to come to Palau would be with a significant salary reduction.
Laporta and the sports management have considered this option. They know that signing an NBA legend would have not only a sporting impact but also a media and commercial one.
The Lakers Could Block the Signing
The big problem for Barça is that the NBA still counts on Durant. According to Sam Amico, a journalist expert in the league, the Lakers want to sign him this summer.
The team of LeBron James and Luka Doncic seeks to form a historic Big Three. The Phoenix Suns are willing to trade him, and Los Angeles is already working on an offer that would include Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura.
Additionally, other teams like the Dallas Mavericks, Miami Heat, and San Antonio Spurs are also interested.
The dream of seeing Durant at Barça remains alive, but his signing won't be easy. His priority remains competing in the NBA and, with offers from the Lakers, it's difficult for him to make the jump to Europe this summer.
FC Barcelona remains alert to the situation. If in the future Durant decides to try the EuroLeague, Barça will be ready to attempt his signing. But for now, his destination seems to remain in the United States.