Jaden Philogene has opened up on swirling Barcelona rumours and revealed that he is set for a Premier League move instead.
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Philogene was linked with Barcelona
Agent also spotted at club
Plans to join a Premier League club
WHAT HAPPENED?
The 22-year-old English winger has been the subject of intense speculation over the past few days, with many suggesting that he was on the verge of joining the Spanish giants. The Blaugrana identified him as a potential target while searching for a new left-winger. Despite Philogene's undeniable talent and impressive performances, he was considered a backup option rather than a primary target as the club's main focus remains on signing Nico Williams from Athletic Club.
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WHAT PHILOGENE SAID
Philogene has made it clear that while Barcelona is his dream club, the offers from the Premier League were more concrete and aligned with his career goals.
“I chose the Premier League because it is the clearest offer I have, but my dream is still La Liga," he told Que T'hi Jugues.
“Barça is my dream, I hope I can sign for them one day. My idols are Ronaldinho and Neymar," he added.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Philogene's agent went viral after he allegedly posed for pictures outside Barcelona's offices on Thursday. However, Sport, has reported that the snaps are a month old and were taken when his representative visited the Catalan club to thrash out separate deals regarding youth players in La Masia.
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Philogene's decision comes on the back of a highly successful season at Hull City. After transferring permanently from Aston Villa last summer, he made a significant impact in the EFL Championship, scoring 12 goals in 32 appearances.
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WHAT NEXT FOR PHILOGENE?
With Barcelona off the table, several Premier League clubs have expressed interest in signing Philogene with Everton, West Ham United, and Ipswich Town among the frontrunners vying for his signature. It remains to be seen where he finally ends up after shining with Hull in the previous campaign.