Juventus CEO Beppe Marotta rules out move for Andrés Iniesta
Beppe Marotta has temporarily bailed out Josep Maria Bartomeu. The media had been unforgiving in the criticism of the Barca president over Andrés Iniesta’s contract, but he will get a respite. After Barcelona outplayed Juventus 3-0 in the Champions League match-up, Marotta announced that Juventus would not be pursuing Iniesta.
"He said, “Iniesta is an amazing footballer but he is contracted with Barcelona. He is going to sign a contract extension with them as well, he is on very good terms with the board and he is a very important footballer for his club so I don’t see Iniesta leave Barcelona in the future, I think he will stay at Barcelona.”"
Ever since his contract entered its last season, Juventus were tracking him. But they have finally given up on their pursuit. The Old Lady had hoped that Iniesta would follow in ex-teammate Dani Alves’ footsteps but Iniesta has decided to remain loyal.
Barcelona to go back in for Jean Seri in January
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Barcelona left Jean Seri heartbroken when they called off the deal to sign him this summer. Seri idolises Xavi and he wanted to play for Barca. But the club called off the deal at the last moment. An agreement with Nice was in place, but before Seri could arrive for the medical, Barcelona vetoed the deal.
But, according to Sport, Barca has reignited interest in the Ivorian. The report states that Barcelona are going to go back in for the tireless midfielder in January. The club is still considering Seri as an option, but not a third-choice one.
Next: Valencia made surprise bid for Aleix Vidal on deadline day
This summer, Barca prioritised the signings of Philippe Coutinho and Angel di Maria. But it is the president’s duty to not that happen in January. The team has to come before big-name signings.