Girona issue angry statement over Barcelona- Romeu links

The Catalans’ unsuccessful search for a new defensive midfielder has continued in recent weeks.

Girona FC has issued an indignant statement in response to recent reports linking midfielder Oriol Romeu with a potential move to Barcelona.

The Catalan club is in search of a defensive midfielder following the departure of Sergio Busquets, and Romeu, a product of Barcelona’s La Masia academy, has emerged as a rumored target.

It has even been suggested that Barcelona manager Xavi Hernández personally reached out to Romeu regarding a return to Camp Nou.

Girona, however, has voiced its displeasure with Xavi’s alleged contact, emphasizing that Romeu is not a free agent.

The club’s official statement published by SPORT reads: “We know that Xavi has called our player, and Oriol Romeu is not free. He has a contract with Girona until 2025, so we say that this cannot be done.”

Earlier this summer Xavi was heavily criticised by Bayern Munich’s hierarchy after publicly expressing his interest in signing Joshua Kimmich. The club’s efforts to sign Ruben Neves also failed, with the Portugal international joining Al Hilal ahead of the next season.

Romeu’s contract with Girona reportedly includes a release clause of under €10 million. While Barcelona may find the fee affordable, it could still pose financial challenges for the club as they aim to regain control over their finances.

Having joined Barcelona’s youth academy in 2004, Romeu made two first-team appearances during the 2010/11 season before moving to Chelsea in 2011. Following several loan spells and a permanent transfer to Southampton, the 31-year-old midfielder returned to Spain with Girona last summer. Romeu played a crucial role in Michel’s side, impressing with his performances as Girona finished in a respectable tenth place in La Liga during their first season back in the top flight.

Romeu’s recent form has captured Barcelona’s attention, as he represents a more cost-effective option compared to Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, whose release clause stands at €60 million.