FC Barcelona’s World Cup-winning internationals returned to training this week, though notably absent was forward Ferran Torres, whose impending transfer to Paris Saint-Germain is moving toward completion. According to multiple reports from outlets such as SPORT and El Periódico, the Catalan club granted the Spanish international permission to miss Wednesday’s double session at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper to finalize his move.
Ferran Torres Absent as PSG Transfer Advances
Torres was expected to rejoin the squad following post-tournament commitments after scoring the decisive goal that helped Spain secure the 2026 World Cup title. Instead, negotiations between Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain have progressed rapidly. El Periódico reports that Barcelona rejected an initial bid earlier in the week, but the two clubs are now closing in on a fee of approximately 55 million euros, including variables. The forward’s contract with Barcelona was set to expire in another year, and with the player expressing a desire to join Luis Enrique’s squad in France, sporting management decided the timing suited both parties.
World Cup Champions and Squad Remodel Under Flick
While Torres prepares for his departure, head manager Hansi Flick welcomed back a core group of Spanish internationals. Pau Cubarsí, Pedri, Dani Olmo, and Lamine Yamal reported for Wednesday’s double sessions. They join Gavi, Joan Garcia, and Eric Garcia, who returned earlier in the week alongside English newcomer Anthony Gordon. French defender Jules Koundé also reported back earlier to reestablish his role at right-back following an inconsistent prior campaign.
The overhaul leaves Barcelona momentarily short in the attacking line following the recent departure of Robert Lewandowski to Major League Soccer. El Periódico notes that sporting director Deco has explored alternative targets, including potential interest in Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez, despite significant financial hurdles. Meanwhile, Flick has evaluated several youth prospects during recent training sessions, utilizing players from the youth academy as the club prepares for an upcoming friendly match in Basel.
Next Steps and Fixture Schedule
Barcelona continues its summer preparations ahead of a weekend fixture scheduled in Basel this Sunday at 16:30 local time. The impending confirmation of Torres’s sale to Paris Saint-Germain—expected to be finalized once PSG concludes its Supercup commitments—precedes ongoing discussions regarding other high-profile targets in the transfer market.
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