Transfer Centre

Memphis Depay confirms Barcelona move was "nearly done"

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 08 October 2020

Lyon captain Memphis Depay confirms that a deadline-day move to Barcelona was "nearly done", only for "certain rules" to scupper the deal.

Lyon captain Memphis Depay has confirmed that his proposed deadline-day switch to Barcelona was "nearly done" before collapsing.

The 26-year-old was heavily linked with the Catalan giants following the arrival of Ronald Koeman as manager, with the incoming boss identifying Memphis as one of his top targets having worked together for the Netherlands national team.

Lyon were also open to cashing in on the forward rather than risk losing him on a free transfer when his contract expires next summer, and had even slashed their asking price to £23m.

However, La Liga rules in the wake of coronavirus meant that Barcelona would have needed to offload one player before bringing Memphis in, and the breakdown of Ousmane Dembele's loan switch to Manchester United ultimately meant that the Spanish giants could not afford the Dutchman.

"Yes, it was pretty close. We don't have to go into all the details, but indeed we were nearly done. Unfortunately, certain rules stopped it. I believe that everything in my life happens for a reason. If it has to happen, it will happen," Memphis told reporters.

"It is going as it should, that's how I live life. I have to focus on Lyon again, be important and then we'll see how things go.

"Nobody can see into the future. If I just do my thing, interest will remain. Maybe it will work then. I have to switch that switch now."

Memphis has already scored four goals in six appearances for Lyon this season, having netted 15 times in 22 outings last term.