The signing of Memphis Depay is imminent. Over the past few weeks, negotiations between both parties have been progressing steadily. Both camps now optimistic in reaching an agreement. However, the negotiations took place for some time now, and in this article we will explore the reasons why.
New agencies, new lawyers
Before the Dutch International changed agencies and lawyers, the player already had a full agreement with the club. Both sides accepted all the conditions, with only the end of the season pending before making the signing official. However, around mid-May, the player personally announced on his Instagram that he would negotiate himself. Furthermore, he would do that with new legal experts and agencies around him. Because of this, the terms and conditions of the contract had to be completely re-negotiated. Both parties essentially had to open negotiations again. It is only natural that an agreement would have to be delayed.
Interest from other teams
Although the player always wanted Barcelona, and Barcelona always wanted the player, other teams also wanted to acquire his services. Teams such as Juventus and Paris St Germain have inquired about the player, with Juventus even reportedly offering Depay a higher salary than Barcelona. Ultimately, it was expected that he would reject these other teams. This was the way to fulfill his goal in coming to the Camp Nou, which very much looks the case now. Nevertheless, the negotiations stalled for a while, as the player considered the other offers on the table.
The future of Ronald Koeman
The signing of Depay did indeed depend on the continuity of Ronald Koeman. When the manager’s future was in the air, negotiations for Depay were on hold too. They were awaiting the final decision on what was going to happen with Koeman, before continuing their pursuit.
Now with the manager staying, Depay’s chances of coming increased. The Dutch international respects Koeman a lot. He sees him as a manager who helped him grow and develop within the national side. In fact, their relationship is so close, that Koeman maintains contact with Depay during these negotiations, with the aim of convincing him. The manager has been asking for the player since last August, with Barcelona looking to deliver this time around.
As of today, according to Matteo Moretto and Fernando Polo, both parties are finalizing the agreement. The contracts are now being settled with the lawyers. They are looking to complete this transfer in the coming days.
Memphis Depay will be the 4th signing of the summer, after acquiring the signatures of Eric Garcia, Sergio Aguero and Emerson Royal.
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