SHOCKING NEWS:from Fabrizio Romano indicate Barcelona’s readiness to activate a buy-back clause, intending to bring back a former underperforming FLOP player to the club.

Barcelona seems poised to activate the buy-back clause embedded in defender Chadi Riad’s contract, currently plying his trade for Real Betis. La Blaugrana, driven by the desire to fortify their squad following a lackluster start to the 2023-24 season, sits at fourth place in La Liga, trailing leaders Real Madrid by seven points after completing 18 matches.

The perpetual talent factory at La Masia continues to churn out exceptional players, and this season is no exception. Emerging talents like Fermin Lopez, Lamine Yamal, and Marc Guiu have showcased their abilities under the tutelage of Xavi. However, not every product of the academy secures a place within the club, with several opting to seek opportunities elsewhere. One such prospect is the 20-year-old center-back, Chadi Riad, who embarked on a loan spell to Real Betis last summer, accompanied by an option for Betis to purchase him for €3.5 million.

According to footballwave (via BarcaUniversal), the terms of the loan dictated that if Riad met a certain threshold of appearances for Betis – which he has now achieved – the option to purchase would be activated. Additionally, Barcelona inserted a buy-back option of €7 million in the agreement, and reports indicate their readiness to exercise this clause next summer.

Riad is slated to conclude the season with Real Betis before making his return to Catalonia. Barcelona anticipates that upon his return, Riad will contribute as a competitive force among their regular squad members. His stint at Real Betis has seen him make 15 appearances this season, a testament to his growing experience, and he also earned his maiden call-up to the Moroccan national team in March.