Will Ansu Fati return to Barcelona? Deco provides update on Brighton loanee's long-term Camp Nou future

Fati found himself frozen out by Xavi, and despite reaching double-digit goals for the Blaugrana last season, was allowed to leave. Barcelona sent the youngster on loan to Brighton amid interest in a permanent deal from Manchester United.

Barca sporting director Deco suggested in an interview with RAC1 that the winger could have a future in Catalunya, despite being sent on loan: "Of course Ansu Fati can return here, he’s on loan to Brighton. He’s young, he’s happy now. I think Brighton was good choice to play regular football, we’re following his progress. It’s up to his performances. But Ansu could return to Barca, for sure."

A number of different clubs were said to be interested in Fati at various points last summer. Man Utd were reportedly in the running, while Spurs and Chelsea also were said to have made contact about a permanent move for the Barca winger. After his departure, the Blaugrana signed Joao Felix on loan, an apparent replacement who could be set for a long-term transfer to Catalunya.

After missing out on Luis de le Fuente's most recent Spain squad, Fati will return to action for Brighton following the international break, and projects to be in contention to play when the Seagulls travel to Nottingham Forest.