Barcelona are reportedly chasing the signature of footballing legend Gheorghe Hagi’s son Ianis Hagi, who is currently plying his trade for Vitorul in Romania.
Spanish publication AS claim that Barcelona are looking to bring in the son of a footballing legend in the current transfer window. Ianis Hagi, son of Romanian legend Gheorghe Hagi, is on their radar, with the Vitorul star also being tailed by several other top European clubs.
The report credits Gicu Popescu for the rumour, with the Romanian journalist adding that Barcelona are leading Spartak in the race to sign Ianis. The Catalan giants are reportedly looking to buy the player and subsequently loan him to Real Valladolid for the coming season.
One of the major reasons behind Barcelona’s interest is the hope that Ianis will be able to do justice to the legacy his father, Gheorghe had created in La Liga while representing Barcelona and Real Madrid.
Ianis Hagi had a fruitful 2018-19 campaign with Vitorul. Playing all across the front four but mainly at attacking midfield, Ianis scored 14 goals with 8 assists as well to his name. His form has also seen him lock down a regular place in attack for the Romanian National Team.
Barcelona have made it a mission to sign players with a future predicament for the club in the current transfer window. Ludovit Reis was brought in for the B team while the club has also recently snapped up Japanese international Hiroki Abe, according to reports.
Ianis Hagi’s versatility and his experience in Europe means he could be primed for first-team action earlier than the aforementioned two names. The Romanian international though, will have to first prove himself at Real Valladolid, which is where Barcelona reportedly intend to loan him out for the season.
Popescu did admit that the club had negotiations with a few clubs for Ianis but reiterated the fact that the player is currently enjoying his vacation and will only make a firm choice when the right offer comes along.
Barcelona’s offer might just be that, if the Catalans do come in. A chance to follow in his father’s footsteps at one of the cathedrals of world football could be a temptation too strong to resist. The Romanian Maradona might have hung up his boots. But, Ianis would hope he is the second coming.
