Paris Saint-Germain have completed the signing of Barcelona teenager Dro Fernandez.
The Parisians have secured one of La Masia’s highest-rated prospects after agreeing a fee above his €6m (£5.2m) release clause.
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Fernandez, who turned 18 earlier this month, arrived in the French capital on Sunday evening, ending a turbulent few weeks which left Barcelona frustrated and disappointed.
While his buyout clause stood at €6 million, PSG reportedly paid more than €8 million (£6.9 million) as a gesture of goodwill for a deal that nevertheless angered senior officials at the Catalan club.
Considered one of the most outstanding midfielders in his age group in Spain, Fernandez joined Barcelona’s academy at 14 and quickly rose through the ranks.
His technical quality and press resistance earned him comparisons to Thiago Alcântara and Pedri, and he was seen internally as a long-term option for the first team.
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Head coach Hansi Flick had clearly had faith in the midfielder, taking him on Barcelona’s pre-season tour of Asia last summer, where Fernandez scored against Daegu FC.
He then made his senior debut in La Liga and the Champions League, appearing 5 times and totaling 148 minutes.
Despite these signs of confidence, Fernandez informed Flick in January of his desire to leave in search of more regular football.
The decision reportedly came just days after his representatives agreed on a new contract with Barcelona, which is expected to be signed after his 18th birthday.
Flick made no secret of his frustration when asked about the situation earlier this month, highlighting the influence of agents and advisors around young players.
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Club president Joan Laporta later described the move as unpleasant, admitting that Barcelona felt blindsided by the timing of the decision.
At PSG, Fernandez will find Luis Enrique, whose 4-3-3 system could suit his profile more naturally.
The French champions hope the move will accelerate the development of a midfielder many in Spain see as destined for the highest level.
