Girona retain interest in Barcelona youngster after failed summer move – report

Girona retain interest in Barcelona youngster after failed summer move – report Girona remain interested in Barcelona youngster Brian Farinas, although no negotiations or contact have taken place ahead of the January transfer window, reports Mundo Deportivo . The 20-year-old is the only member of Barcelona’s first-team squad yet to feature this season, but Xavi Espart’s injury could give him an unexpected opportunity to make his debut against Alaves. With Hansi Flick having already tested him at right-back, Farinas faces a potentially important moment in his Barcelona career. Girona transfer interest in Brian Farinas remains alive However, Farinas continues to attract interest from Girona after the Catalan club came close to securing his services in an earlier deal. The proposed operation involved a payment of €1.5 million for 50% of the player’s rights, but the move stalled when Flick decided to keep the youngster in his plans before promoting him to the first-team setup and handing him the No. 4 shirt. Farinas was close to joining Girona in the summer. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images) Girona’s interest stemmed from Farinas’ impressive campaign with Barça Atletic, where he made 33 appearances, scored five goals and provided seven assists. His ability to operate in different midfield positions made him an attractive prospect for the club from Montilivi. There have been no fresh contacts or discussions regarding a potential winter move. However, none of the three parties has ruled out a change of plans. Girona could revisit the possibility of a loan, and Barcelona might consider allowing him to leave in January, while Farinas himself may seek a move if regular playing time remains out of reach. For now, his immediate future could depend on whether he can take advantage of the opportunities available within Flick’s squad. Xavi Espart injury could open the door to Barcelona debut Farinas’ lack of first-team minutes could soon change following Espart’s injury. Barcelona need to assess their options at right-back, with Eric Garcia recovering from his own injury and Jules Kounde yet to resume training before the Alaves fixture. That situation could bring Farinas into contention for a role he has already experienced during pre-season. Farinas has yet to play a single game this season. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images) Although primarily a midfielder, the 20-year-old was given opportunities in several positions during Barcelona’s summer friendlies. He featured as both a defensive midfielder and an interior midfielder, demonstrating the versatility that initially caught Flick’s attention. In the friendly against Birmingham City on 31 July, he also played at right-back. Flick has therefore already seen evidence that the youngster can provide cover beyond his natural midfield positions. With Barcelona dealing with several fitness concerns, that flexibility could prove particularly valuable ahead of the Alaves match. A convincing display could strengthen his case for a place in the first-team rotation and potentially influence Barcelona’s decision over his future even as Girona remain interested.