The UEFA Futsal Champions League’s Final Four is already underway behind the scenes. With Barça and Sporting CP set to clash on May 3rd at the Karen Dermichyan Arena in Yerevan, Armenia, in the second semi-final of this prestigious continental tournament. However, the real battle between these two clubs has commenced early, revolving around a player named Allan Guilherme Costa Silva. The prolific goal scorer from the Placard League of Portugal has become a prime target for both Barça and Sporting CP.
At 24 years old, Allan, who plays for SC Braga, is touted as one of the most promising centers in Europe. Last season, he netted 26 goals in 30 games, and this season, he’s already scored 22 goals in 25 games. His pivotal role in securing the Taça (Cup) of Portugal, where SC Braga defeated Sporting CP in the final in extra time (3-5), further solidified his reputation. It marked the first title in the history of ‘Guerreiros do Minho,’ as they challenge the longstanding dominance of Sporting CP and Benfica in the Portuguese championship.
Ferrao’s departure
Following Ferrao’s departure, Barça’s search for a center led them to consider Allan, but ultimately, they opted for Vinicius Rocha. However, with Rocha out of contention, interest in Allan surged, with Sporting CP and Jimbee Cartagena closely monitoring him. Exclusive reports suggest that Allan Guilherme is close to joining Sporting CP. Who have pursued him for months, even attempting to secure his signing during the winter transfer window after the suspension of Diego Cavinato.
SC Braga demands €100,000, Allan’s termination clause, which Sporting CP is prepared to meet, along with additional taxes. His signing holds strategic significance. As Allan arrived in Portugal at 17 to play for Fundao, making him locally trained and not occupying a foreign player slot under Portuguese Federation rules. Sporting CP views his addition, alongside Zicky Té, as forming the best center pair in Europe, motivating them to make a substantial financial effort.
While Sporting CP pushes for Allan’s acquisition, Barcelona acknowledges the complexities of the operation. Considering that Allan may already have a preliminary agreement with Sporting CP, complicating matters. Consequently, Barcelona explores alternative options, such as Guilhermão Borges, who has experience with Movistar Inter and Feldi Eboli in Italy, currently playing for Nagoya Oceans.
Meanwhile, Barça actively navigates the market, receiving offers for foreign centers and also considering domestic options like Juan Emilio Gil. Notably, Gil has an escape clause in his contract with Quesos El Hidalgo Manzanares, facilitating a potential move to Barcelona.
