World’s Second Most Expensive Transfer Is Now Official
REUTERS/Kai Pfaffenbach
After much hiatus in the transfer window, Barcelona have finally signed Ousmane Dembélé from Borussia Dortmund. The signing was announced in a statement on the club website.
The deal has cost the Spanish giants €105 million as well as add ons, making the player their record signing. The statement went on to reveal that the Frenchman would arrive in Barcelona on Sunday and will undergo his medical, following which the contract shall be signed. The presentation of the new player will happen on Monday.
The 19-year-old had emerged as a target for the Catalan side weeks ago. Moreover, the shock departure of Neymar Jr to PSG for €222 million set the negotiations into motion, as Barcelona were desperate for a replacement.
The player too, was eager to join the La Liga outfit, boycotting his former club by missing out on training sessions, which culminated in his suspension. It is now clear that he was able to force through a move.
Moreover, Liverpool’s Philippe Coutinho had emerged as Barcelona’s first option. However, the English side was adamant that the player wasn’t for sale, as three big money bids were rejected for the Brazilian.
Ousmane Dembélé:
Aug 2015: Playing in the 5th division for Rennes reserves
Aug 2017: Becomes the 2nd most expensive player ever pic.twitter.com/DyUTjif0Y1
— BlameFootball (@blamefootball) August 25, 2017
Barca’s new signing is hailed as one of the best in the business. Last season, the French international netted 10 goals and provided 20 assists in all competitions, the latter figure being the third best in Europe. He is also notorious for his pace and versatility up front, coupled with a vision that is remarkable for his age.
He can now function as the third forward in Barcelona’s spearhead, alongside Messi and Suarez. Needless to say, the pressure will be on the youngster to perform, owing to the enormous price tag which currently makes him the second most expensive signing in world football as well as the cult status that Barcelona occupy.
It remains to be seen whether this signing will provide a shift in an otherwise sloppy start to the season for the Camp Nou faithful.
Written by Naveen Kelvin 
A writer trying to craft the poetry within football. Purpose in life is to Make Good Art.