A soccer player in a blue and white uniform appears in front of the FC Barcelona crest on an orange background.

Much better than Zubimendi: Barça signs Real Sociedad's star, official

Barça has taken advantage of the moment to sign the player Liverpool also wanted.

Real Sociedad remains a hotbed of talent that attracts the giants of European soccer. This year, one player in particular has caught the attention of two of the most important clubs: FC Barcelona and Liverpool. Both teams are in the midst of strengthening their teams, and this young footballer has become the center of an intense dispute.

Hansi Flick, coach of FC Barcelona. | @FCBarcelona

A Replacement for Mohamed Salah

At Anfield, alarms are ringing. The possible departure of Mohamed Salah has forced Liverpool to look for a reliable substitute. With his speed, ability to unbalance, and score goals, this Real player fits perfectly into the profile the Reds are looking for.

The English team would be willing to shell out a significant amount of money to close the deal. Additionally, there's a possibility of including players like Federico Chiesa and Wataru Endo in the negotiation, seeking to reduce the economic impact of the transfer.

Barça Keeps an Eye on the Talent

Meanwhile, Barça isn't lagging behind. With an attack that needs fresh options, the Catalan club has set its sights on this same footballer. Joan Laporta and Hansi Flick see in him an ideal opportunity to bring versatility and quality to the team, especially at a time when the team needs renewal.

However, Barça's financial limitations complicate the operation. The club must be creative if it wants to compete with Liverpool's offer, exploring formulas like deferred payments or including players to lower the cost.

A man in a black jacket gestures with his index finger raised.
Flick with Barça | @FCBarcelona

Real Sociedad isn't willing to let go of its star easily. With a release clause of 60 million euros, the club holds the upper hand. They value the player as an essential piece in their project, and his departure would represent a significant loss for the Donostian team.

From the Basque club, they've made it clear that any operation must adhere to their conditions, which further complicates the situation for those interested.

Real Sociedad players celebrate a goal in a match against FC Barcelona, with the score showing 1-0 in favor of Real Sociedad in a floodlit stadium.
Real Sociedad | @carpetasFCB

Fierce Competition for the Transfer

The race for this player promises to be one of the great sagas of the next transfer market. Both Liverpool and Barça see him as a key piece for their projects and are willing to do whatever it takes to get him.

While Liverpool offers financial stability and an important role in their starting eleven, Barça appeals to the connection and playing style that could bring out the best.

The footballer in question is none other than Takefusa Kubo, who is having a spectacular season with Real Sociedad. The Japanese, only 23 years old, has proven to be one of LaLiga's great revelations.

Kubo with Real Sociedad | @takefusa.kubo

Kubo has a past linked to Barça, where he spent part of his training. Now, he finds himself at the center of Europe's attention, with his ability to unbalance matches and his vision of the game as his main attributes.

For Kubo, the decision won't be easy. On one hand, Liverpool represents an opportunity to shine in the Premier League. On the other, Barça offers the possibility of returning to a place that marked his beginnings and competing in an ambitious project.

An Outcome Awaited with Anticipation

Whatever his choice, the truth is that Take Kubo is destined to become a star in the European soccer scene. The coming months will be crucial in defining his future, and both Barça and Liverpool will have to fine-tune their strategies to convince the Japanese player.

The outcome of this story will undoubtedly be one of the most anticipated moments of the transfer market.