Riqui Puig, a midfielder for Barcelona, is headed to Major League Soccer after reaching a “understanding in principle” to sign with the Los Angeles Galaxy on a long-term basis, claims Albert Rogé of Relevo.
The latest proposal that Puig received was from the Los Angeles Galaxy and it has been reported that all parties involved have reached a verbal agreement. [as]
Former Barcelona academy player Víctor Vázquez has helped influence Puig’s decision to play in MLS and his signing could be confirmed in the next few hours.
It’s expected that Puig will join the Galaxy on loan for the remainder of the 2022 campaign. His current Barça contract expires in 2023, so the club are considering renewing him.
Only a few minor elements remain to be worked out, but it will be a permanent transfer with a future option for Barça, either with a buyback clause or a percentage of a future sale, as per AS.
Puig has always been a very intriguing prospect who, for various reasons, never managed to establish himself as a regular member of the rotation under various managers.
This summer, the Spaniard appears to have made the decision to spend some time living in the United States after failing to receive any significant offers from European clubs.
Puig was among the Barcelona players that was left out of the tour squad as the manager made it clear that he is not part of his plans for next season.
Martin Braithwaite and Samuel Umtiti was told to look for a new club as well. I think that Riqui Puig will prove himself this season, he is a top talent and a move to the USA League could help him a lot.
The Barcelona fans will miss Riqui’s great skill and lament his failure to find success forever. Similar to how Alen Halilovic did all those years ago, he will always have a special place in their hearts and he might come back someday and realize his full potential.