€10bn offer to buy FC. Barcelona
Rumour reignites global attention
Speculation around Barcelona’s financial stability has intensified after a widely shared social media post suggested an unprecedented intervention could be looming. The claim has quickly spread beyond football circles because of the eye watering sum involved and the identity of the alleged backer.
According to Transfer News Live, citing Spanish football commentator François Gallardo, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is preparing a €10 billion offer to buy Barcelona outright. No official confirmation has been issued by the club, its board or any Saudi representatives.
The reported figure would dwarf any previous valuation seen in football ownership and would rank among the largest acquisitions in global sports history.
Why barcelona’s finances matter beyond football
Barcelona is not a privately owned club in the traditional sense. It is member owned, meaning it is legally controlled by its supporters rather than a single individual or corporation. This structure has historically been presented as a safeguard against takeovers, but it has also limited access to emergency capital.
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Over the past decade, the club accumulated massive liabilities through player transfers, stadium redevelopment and wage commitments. When revenues fell sharply during the pandemic, those financial pressures became public and acute.
According to estimates frequently cited in Spanish and international media, Barcelona’s total liabilities are close to €2.5 billion, making it one of the most indebted sports organisations in the world.
Why a €10bn figure sparks debate
The suggested takeover price has drawn attention because it vastly exceeds what would be required to stabilise the club financially. In theory, such a sum could eliminate debts, fund stadium redevelopment and restore long term liquidity.
However, according to analysts familiar with European football governance, any outright purchase would face major legal and institutional obstacles, including approval from club members and compliance with Spanish sporting law.
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Neither Barcelona nor representatives linked to the Saudi leadership have commented publicly on the claim, underlining the speculative nature of the report.
Outstanding transfer obligations add pressure
Separate reporting by Transfer News Live has also highlighted ongoing cash flow strain. According to the account, Barcelona still owe approximately £138 million in unpaid transfer fees to other clubs.
Those obligations reportedly include £36.5 million owed to Leeds United for Raphinha, £22 million to Sevilla for Jules Koundé and additional deferred payments to RB Leipzig, Manchester City and Bayern Munich for recent signings.
According to the same reporting, the club has been informed it must settle £121 million of those outstanding fees by the end of the season to maintain financial stability under existing agreements.
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Why takeover rumours keep returning
Barcelona’s continued competitiveness on the pitch contrasts sharply with its balance sheet realities. That disconnect helps explain why rumours of outside rescue funding repeatedly gain traction, particularly when linked to sovereign wealth or state backed investors.
For now, the alleged bid remains unverified and should be treated with caution. Still, the scale of the claim has once again exposed how precarious Barcelona’s financial position remains, and why even unconfirmed reports can send shockwaves through global sport.
Sources, Transfer News Live, François Gallardo
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