The truth about Barcelona's interest in Valencia midfielder Carlos Soler

Carlos Soler's name has been on the front line of Barcelona transfer news in recent weeks. SPORT revealed Barça's interest a few days ago and on Monday Valencia denied there was any agreement with the Catalan club following a story in Diario AS.

What is true is that Soler is liked at Barça, but the operation is in the preliminary phase and is dependent on many factors. It's one of Barça's primary objectives, but first they need a big departure to be able to commit to the deal before June 30, as both Barça and Valencia need to sell to balance their financial books. The deal may happen or not, but it's there to be done if Barça push.

The only thing Barça have done so far is sound out Soler's availability and desire to move to Camp Nou. The midfielder is negotiating a new deal with Valencia but it's unlikely he signs soon due to financial and sporting reasons. Several teams are monitoring the situation but he will wait for Barça for now. His priority is to stay in Spain. and he feels Xavi's system would be perfect for him.

FACTOR DE JONG

The obstacle for closing the deal is departures. Barça know Soler is affordable but will only move if a midfielder leaves first. All eyes are on Frenkie de Jong. The Dutchman is not on the market, but it can no longer be hidden that if a big offer arrives, the club will study it.

And Barça know that could happen. Soler's name is there if it does. And it could be a good opportunity for the club in a sporting and financial sense.

The sale of De Jong would bring in a lot of money and the arrival of Soler -- something which is not yet agreed with Valencia -- would be a much smaller investment. Valencia would be obliged to sell for around 30 million euros due to his contract expiring in 2023, even if the expectation is they will continue to deny everything. The coaches at Barça believe SOler would adapt to the project quickly and contribute in attack. The pieces fit, but patience.