Barcelona's Actual Compensation for Securing Pedri, According to Las Palmas' Leader Revealed
In a candid chat on the popular Spanish radio program 'Tu dirás' on RAC1, Pedri's former club president, Miguel Angel Ramirez, shed some light on the real cost of Barcelona's acquisition of their prized midfielder.
Tracing back to September 2019, Barcelona struck a deal worth €5 million for the unknown talent from the Canary Islands. This bargain came in the same summer when the club splurged on Antoine Griezmann from Atletico Madrid, as per the club's then-president, Josep Bartomeu.
Contrary to expectations, Pedri did not immediately join Barcelona B, formerly known as Barca Atletic. Instead, he continued his development at Las Palmas for an additional year before finally making the move to Catalonia ahead of the 2020/2021 season.
Pedri's impressive preseason performances earned him the attentions of then-coach Ronald Koeman, resulting in his inclusion in the primary squad. Pedri, along with Lionel Messi, lifted the Copa del Rey before Messi's departure to Paris Saint-Germain.
Unfortunately, Pedri's breakout season was followed by a string of injuries, which persisted in the years that followed. However, a specialized training program under Hansi Flick and an in-depth study of his genetics have seen Pedri rediscover his form, now being widely considered the best talent in the heart of the pitch.
Ahead of their La Liga showdown, Las Palmas' president shared an estimation of Pedri's true fee, placing it between €23 to €24 million euros. Although no concrete figures were given, it was clear that Barcelona took a calculated gamble on the budding talent, an investment that is proving to be worthwhile, given Pedri's current dominance in his position.
Insights:- Barcelona paid an initial €5 million for Pedri, though the total cost was likely higher due to additional clauses.- Pedri's development at Las Palmas for an additional year before joining Barcelona provided valuable experience.- Pedri's injuries post-breakout season were followed by a period of struggle, but his form has dramatically improved under Hansi Flick's guidance.- Barcelona's investment in Pedri has proven to be a wise choice, as he is now considered one of the best in his position.
Despite initially paying €5 million for Pedri, Barcelona's total investment might have been more due to additional clauses.Pedri's year-long stay at Las Palmas after Barcelona showed interest was beneficial for his development.While Pedri faced a series of injuries post-breakout season, his form improved substantially under Hansi Flick's guidance.Pedri's contribution to Barcelona, especially in his position, has made their investment in him a noteworthy success.La Liga opponent Las Palmas' president estimated Pedri's true fee between €23 to €24 million euros, hinting at a hefty investment by Barcelona.Gavi, also a promising talent from the Canary Islands, is reportedly being linked with a potential move to Barcelona, like Pedri before him.Barcelona's recent financial struggles prompted layoffs among its staff, including some high-profile figures like Ronald Koeman, highlighting the club's financial constraints.
