Barcelona has halted the transfer of 20-year-old midfielder Brian Fariñas to Girona following Frenkie de Jong’s injury. Coach Hansi Flick decided to keep Fariñas with the team to participate in preseason training and the England tour, seeing him as a potential replacement for the injured Dutch midfielder.
Earlier in July, the clubs were close to finalizing a deal to sell 50% of Fariñas’ rights for €1.5 million, but Flick’s intervention changed the plan. Girona remains interested in signing the player but awaits the final decision from Barcelona’s coach.
Fariñas delivered a strong performance with Barcelona Atlètic last season and views this preseason as a crucial opportunity. He has spent much of the summer training with a physical coach to arrive in top condition.
Sporting director Deco and his agent Borja Garcia have held discussions to determine the best path forward. Fariñas’ contract with Barcelona runs until 2028, and the club is currently satisfied with his progress.
Brian Fariñas now faces an unexpected chance to prove himself with Barcelona’s first team amid De Jong’s long-term absence. The outcome of the preseason will undoubtedly shape the young midfielder’s near future.
