Barcelona sporting director Deco has told AS that Marc Guiu pushed for a move to Chelsea in the summer window.
The 18-year-old spent a decade at Barca’s youth system and was promoted to their first team in 2023. He made seven appearances for the La Liga side last season.
Guiu had less than a year left on his deal and it had a €6m release clause. When asked about his transfer to Chelsea, the director opened up about the efforts made by Barca to retain him.
Hansi Flick’s side offered him a better deal, both financially and sporting wise, for the Spain U19 international. The young frontman decided not to accept their renewal proposal in order to join the Blues.
“Chelsea paid the clause, and he left. He had an old contract, with a clause of €6m. He was offered an important contract and an important project, but he made the decision to go another route,” he said.
“Yes, we have tried a lot, but we were not able to [retain him]. The player opted for an offer from Chelsea. We offered him a project to be a Barca forward, but he didn’t want to.”
Back in July, claims from the Spanish press had stated Chelsea were willing to let Guiu go out on loan. The west London club didn’t sanction a temporary move, and the player is currently part of Enzo Maresca’s plans this season.
Guiu has clocked in 144 minutes form three matches for the Premier League side so far.
