Wolves target wanted by West Ham ‘highly unlikely’ to stay as date set for decision

Wolverhampton Wanderers transfer target Ansu Fati doesn’t have much of a say in his Barcelona future, according to a reputable report. The winger, who came through Barça’s youth academy with heaps of promise, is now on the verge of departing Camp Nou after four seasons in the senior team.

Julen Lopetegui’s side have been heavily linked with a potential move for Fati for months as talk has ramped up about a potential swap deal involving Rúben Neves. Whether or not that particular agreement will take place awaits to be seen, but Barcelona’s stance is clear amid interest from Premier League clubs.

According to The Athletic, Fati, who is also wanted by West Ham United, should “prepare for the worst” as it would “take a near-miracle” for him to be playing for Barcelona next season. Former Manchester City forward Ferran Torres is in a similar situation as head coach Xavi has already made up his mind about the pair.

“I am happy with him [Fati],” Xavi told The Athletic. “Ansu’s season has been good, like everyone’s. I have congratulated them before the games. They have all added up and have been important at some point. He’s scored, assisted and been important in some moments. Why is he not unsellable? Well, this week we’ll know,” Xavi continued.

Asked whether his plans have changed about summer departures, Xavi said: “Not at all. Our planning remains the same. Over the past four games we’ve tried new things and players in different roles, but our minds were already made up. I can’t advance anything about what will happen. This week we are going to decide things.”

This comes as good reading for both Wolves and West Ham if they are to advance with their respective moves for Fati, though it has to be considered both destinations would be a big step down for the player. The 20-year-old may have had many of his minutes off the bench for Barça, but he was still a regular in La Liga and the Champions League.

Bolstering an impressive league title and Spanish Super Cup double in 2022-23 as well as holding a medal for the 2020-21 Copa del Rey, Fati has already won plenty at his young age. Born in October 2002, he won’t even turn 21 until the autumn and has a bright future ahead. Where it will be, however, remains unclear.