Barcelona: Why did Xavi choose Ferran Torres over Dani Olmo?

Barcelona are closing in on signing Torres despite their long-time links with a move for the Leipzig forward.

Barcelona have reportedly agreed with Manchester City over a €55 million move for Ferran Torres. The Spaniard will be Barca’s second signing under Xavi Hernandez, following the return of Dani Alves.

Torres will most likely become a regular starter as Barcelona are already dealing with personnel problem upfront. However, the move was surprising to many observers as Barca were eyeing a move for Dani Olmo for months.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Xavi had two options on his table for a new forward. Despite the club’s interest in Olmo, the manager preferred to add Torres to his team. The Spanish outlet claims Xavi had made his final choice based on Torres’ better goal stats.

Paperworks completed with #MCFC in the last 24 hours. Contract approved including bonuses in case of titles in the next five years.

Ferrán Torres will be announced soon as new Barça player 📁🤝 #FCB

After Ferrán deal agreed, Hakim Ziyech will not join Barça in January ❌ #CFC pic.twitter.com/Oechma5irN
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 25, 2021

Both forwards are versatile and can play in different positions in the final third. However, Torres is closer to a classic striker, which is more appealing to Barcelona. The Catalans saw Sergio Aguero announcing his retirement earlier this month, with Luuk de Jong being set for a January exit.

During his time under Pep Guardiola, Torres scored 16 goals in 43 appearances for Man City. He could not secure a starting place at the Etihad Stadium, but Barcelona will provide him with more game time.

As a 21-year-old, Torres can still improve further, with Barca proving to be a great place for development. Talents such as Nico, Gavi, and Pedri have already revived Barca’s hopes for the post-Messi era. The Spanish giants are looking to kick start a new era amid their financial problems.