BARCELONA have agreed a £22million fee for Lyon ace Memphis Depay as Ronald Koeman begins his rebuilding project, according to reports.
The new Catalan boss wants a striker to play alongside Lionel Messi with Luis Suarez heading for the exit door.
Barcelona have agreed a £22m fee for Memphis DepayCredit: AFP or licensors
Despite bagging 15 goals last season, Lyon’s manager Rudi Garcia is refusing to stand in his way.
Garcia even joked he would drive the 26-year-old to the Nou Camp in order for the player to fulfill his dream.
He told Telefoot: “I read the Catalan press this morning. They talk about Memphis.
“Memphis is a fantastic player and if he can play the season with Lyon, we will only be stronger.
“But like many of my players, if they have the opportunity to play in a club built to win the Champions League, and he’s met a lot of them last season, I will personally take him in my car.”
Spanish paper La Vanguardia write how Barca’s offer has been accepted and personal terms will now be agreed.
Lyon are being forced to sell their captain with just a year left on his contract.
Depay will become Koeman’s first significant signing when the deal goes through.
Ronald Koeman is plotting a squad rebuild at BarcelonaCredit: EPA
The coach managed the ex-Manchester United flop during his time as Holland manager.
Depay was sold by United in 2017 after struggling to impress in his two-year spell.
Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas also revealed how Barca have competition with Roma for his signature.
Aulas said: “Memphis’ contract is expiring. Koeman wants him at Barcelona, but there is also Roma in for the player.”
Depay admitted he is happy with life in Ligue 1 but hinted he is open to leaving.
He said: “I never said I want to leave. When I say something, it is often distorted.
“I still have a one-year contract, I am captain, and we have a good team. We have shown that.
“I feel good about myself but also have my dreams. I have always expressed that too.”
Depay has hit the ground this season, running scoring a hat-trick in Lyon’s 4-1 win over Dijon in their opening game.
Messi has confirmed that he will stay at Barcelona
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
