September 01, (THEWILL) – Brighton and Hove Albion have confirmed the signing of highly-rated winger, Ansu Fati, on a season-long loan from Barcelona.
Numerous English Premier League clubs were keeping tabs on Fati this summer, but the young forward was initially keen to remain at Barcelona and fight for a starting spot. However, after continuing to struggle for minutes in the opening weeks of the season, Fati has decided to take his talents to Brighton for the remainder of the campaign.
The emergence of 16-year-old Lamine Yamal is thought to have been a factor in Fati’s decision to gain more playing time away from Camp Nou. Although there is no option for a permanent transfer in the loan deal, Fati will return to Barcelona next summer.
Brighton manager, Roberto De Zerbi, said: “This is a great deal for all of us. I’m sure Ansu will help us reach a new target and we can help him get back to the level he deserves.” Technical director David Weir added: “We’re delighted to bring Ansu to the club. Despite his young age he has a lot of experience and will add quality to the squad. This season is hugely important for us and having a player of Ansu’s calibre will aid our progress.”
At just 20 years old, Fati will be eager to use his spell at Brighton to rebuild momentum after injury disruption. He heads to the south coast having already racked up 112 Barcelona appearances and scored 29 goals.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
