Barcelona have confirmed the transfer of young defender Mikayil Faye to French club Rennes in a deal valued at €10.3 million.
The 20-year-old, who has primarily featured for Barcelona’s B team, will now have the chance to play regular first-team football with the Ligue 1 side.
However, Faye’s journey could bring him back to Catalonia, as Hansi Flick’s team has secured a €25 million buyback clause in the agreement with Rennes.
Barcelona’s official statement on the transfer read, “FC Barcelona and Stade Rennais F.C. have reached agreement for the transfer of the player Mikayil Faye for €10.3m. The blaugrana club has included a €25m buyback clause and a 30% sell-on fee clause in the deal for the player.
“The Club publicly expresses its thanks to Faye for his commitment and dedication, and wishes him every success in the future in both his personal and professional life.”
Faye had been part of Barcelona’s pre-season squad, making appearances in friendlies against Real Madrid and Milan.
His departure provides a timely financial boost as the club seeks to generate funds in the final week of the summer transfer window.
Meanwhile, Ilkay Gundogan has rejoined Manchester City after just a year away from the Premier League, with Barcelona needing to offload players to register new signing Dani Olmo for La Liga competition.
Gundogan, who helped Germany win Euro 2024, was not included in Barcelona’s squad for their match against Athletic Club on Saturday.
Goals from Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski secured a 2-1 win for Flick’s side, with Olmo also missing out for the second consecutive week following their opening victory over Valencia by the same scoreline.
