Barcelona re-sign La Masia graduate from rival club

The Catalan giants have welcomed back Oriol Romeu to fold, 12 years after he left the club.

Oriol Romeu, a La Masia graduate, has rejoined FC Barcelona on a three-season deal from Girona.

The 31-year-old cost a reported €3.4 million transfer fee after Barcelona activated the buyout clause in his Girona contract. He has signed up with Xavi Hernandez’s side until June 2026. According to the club, the deal includes a €400 million release clause.

Previously, Romeu played for Barcelona between 2004 and 2011. The Catalan, who hails from Ulldecona, learned his trade at the club’s famed La Masia academy. He spent a number of years in the youth set-up, before making his senior debut in the 2010/11 season under Pep Guardiola.

Romeu made two first-team appearances, before joining Chelsea in 2011. But after loan spells at Valencia and VfB Stuttgart, the midfielder joined Southampton in 2015. He spent last season in LaLiga with Girona, making 33 appearances as the Catalan club secured a 10th-place finish.

Now Romeu heads back to Barca as the club’s third signing for the 2023/24 campaign. His arrival follows the departures of veteran duo Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, as well as defender Samuel Umtiti.

Romeu might make his second competitive debut on August 13. This will be when Barcelona visit Getafe in Madrid for their LaLiga opener.

Last week, the reigning LaLiga champions announced a deal to sign Vitor Roque in 2024. The 18-year-old Athletico Paranaense striker will arrive for a reported €30 million fee.