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We’ve seen the reports in Diario Sport, in Mundo Deportivo and even across the channel in the Daily Mail; but now Barça Blaugranes can confirm the world’s worst kept secret: Luis Suarez will sign for FC Barcelona this summer. Following an exclusive discussion with a club insider, Barça Blaugranes understands that a deal for Suarez is imminent, with our source confirming that an official announcement is likely to be made within the next 48-72 hours.
Certainly, while there are a few details left to iron out before this transfer is announced, the deal has progressed such that preparations are already being made for his arrival – with Luis Suarez expected to take the number nine shirt currently held by Alexis Sánchez. With a price tag expected to be in the range of €65 to €80 million, Suarez will become FC Barcelona’s second most expensive signing of all-time, following on from last summer’s blockbuster deal that saw Brazilian prodigy Neymar finally move to Catalunya.
Of course, Culés are divided about the deal. On one hand, Barcelona will gain one of the best players in the world, and arguably the best "nine" in the game. On the other, Barça will deplete their bank balance considerably, further reducing the likelihood that the Blaugrana will finally splash some cash on a centre-half and fill their most pressing need.
However, following the sale of Cesc Fàbregas and the anticipated departure of Chilean forward, Alexis Sánchez, Barcelona may yet have another ace up their sleeve. In a recent interview, FC Barcelona president, Josep Maria Bartomeu confirmed that the club will step up their search for a centre-half following the conclusion of the World Cup, perhaps hinting at a deal for Borussia Dortmund defender, Mats Hummels, who scored the winning goal in Germany’s 1-0 quarter-final win over France at the Maracana last night.
But that’s a story for another day: at the moment the focus will remain on Luis Suarez and his mouth-watering move from Liverpool to FC Barcelona. What do you think Culés?