Antonio Cordero, a.k.a Antonito, whose contract with Malaga expires in 2025, remains a target for FC Barcelona, who tried to sign the talented forward last summer, reports SPORT.
In fact, it is claimed that negotiations with his representative, Pini Zahavi, are well underway as Barça aim to secure the 17-year-old’s services in the near future.
Antonito on Barcelona’s agenda
Barcelona sought to strengthen the attacking options for their reserve team, Barça Atletic, last summer, to replace Pau Victor, who was signed permanently and promoted to the first team.
While the return of Víctor Barbera was secured, the Blaugrana also pursued the signing of Antonito, but were unsuccessful in the end.
Barcelona opted not to meet the €3 million financial demands set by Malaga for their promising forward as his contract expires in 2025.
Despite missing out on Antonito last summer, Barcelona have not forgotten about the forward. Since August, the 17-year-old attacker has been represented by superagent Pini Zahavi, who has a close relationship with Barça president Joan Laporta.
Zahavi also represents the Blaugrana head coach, Hansi Flick, and superstar Robert Lewandowski, which could be an advantage for Barcelona in their efforts to sign the young talent.
January move not ruled out
Within Malaga, there is growing concern over the ongoing delays in negotiations regarding Antonito’s contract renewal. They fear that he may be on his way out, with reports suggesting that a transfer to Barcelona is likely to take place next summer.
In fact, some outlets have even suggested that the Blaugrana could make a move for Antonito as early as January, should Malaga decide to sell him to avoid losing him on a free transfer in the summer.
However, the situation is being handled with great discretion, with both Barcelona and the player’s camp keen to avoid causing any unnecessary disruption with Malaga.
So far this season, Antonito has scored and assisted three goals apiece for Málaga, contributing significantly to their efforts since their return to La Liga 2.
With his talent continuing to shine and his contract now in its final stages, Antonito’s future appears to be heading towards a potential move to Barcelona.
