Ferran Torres edges closer to PSG move, misses Barca training again
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Ferran Torres, the man who scored the winning goal in the 2026 World Cup final, is closing in on a transfer to European champions Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) after missing training with FC Barcelona for a second consecutive day. The 26-year-old Spanish forward was expected to report back on Wednesday, 13 August, but was granted permission by the club to stay away as negotiations over his future continue.
Negotiations Under Way
Torres is simultaneously negotiating personal terms with PSG while the two clubs work through the transfer fee. According to reports from the Spanish press, the fee is expected to fall in the range of 40 to 50 million euros (approximately $46–57.5 million). Barcelona, with one year remaining on Torres' contract, are keen to cash in now rather than risk losing him on a free transfer at the end of June 2027.
A Deepening Striker Crisis at Camp Nou
Torres' likely departure compounds a significant squad problem for Barcelona. With Robert Lewandowski's contract also set to expire in June, the Catalan club faces the prospect of heading into the 2026-27 season without a specialist centre-forward. The club will need to identify and sign a replacement before the transfer window closes. Barcelona open their La Liga 2026-27 campaign on 24 August against Elche.
Other Players Training Separately
Torres is not the only player whose future is unsettled. Midfielder Marc Casado and defenders Hector Fort and Jofre Torrents are all training apart from the main squad as Barcelona seek new destinations for them. Casado is reportedly attracting interest from clubs in the Saudi Pro League and is valued at around 40 million euros. Fort, meanwhile, has been linked with a return to Elche, where he spent last season on loan.
Barcelona's Dominant Season Sets the Stage
The transfer activity comes on the back of a highly successful campaign. Under manager Hansi Flick, Barcelona clinched their second consecutive La Liga title in May 2026, sealing the trophy with an El Clasico victory over Real Madrid and finishing 14 points clear at the summit. Retaining that dominance while navigating a significant squad overhaul will be the defining challenge of Flick's next chapter. How Barcelona replace Torres — and whether they do so in time for the season opener — will shape their title defence before a ball is kicked.