Report: Barcelona close to signing Ligue 1 star Ben Arfa on free transfer
Barcelona could make a surprise signing to back up the 'MSN' trio.
According
to reports in France and Spain, the Catalan giants have held several
meetings with the agents of Nice striker Hatem Ben Arfa, and are very
close to a deal that would have the Frenchman joining the Blaugrana
on a free transfer. Ben Arfa's contract expires this summer and he
didn't pursue an extension with his current team in hopes of finding a
new home in a bigger club.
Ben
Arfa is mostly known for a bad spell in the Premier League with
Newcastle, but he revitalized his career when he joined Nice, and became
one of the French league's best players. The 29-year-old has 17 goals
in 32 appearances this season, and has incredible skills to go on with
his scoring ability.
After
such a good campaign in Ligue 1, he was linked with a move back to the
Premier League, but Barça officials contacted the player's entourage and
started negotiations. There is no talks between clubs since Ben Arfa is
a free agent, meaning he only needs to agree with a salary offer and
join immediately.
Ben
Arfa's singing would be an opportunity deal, something Barça sporting
director Robert Fernández wouldn't pursue if there was a transfer fee
involved, but he is happy to do it for free. If Ben Arfa is indeed
signed, Barça's budget would be intact and the Blaugrana can go after expensive center-backs and full-backs knowing that their 'MSN' backup priority is already taken care of.
What do you think, Blaugranes? Happy with Ben Arfa's deal, if it happens?