Memphis Depay admits his transfer to Barcelona was ‘nearly done’ before deadline day collapse

Lyon talisman Memphis Depay admitted his transfer to Barcelona was “nearly done” before collapsing on the final day of the transfer window.

The Dutch international had been a priority target for new Barca manager Ronald Koeman, with all aspects of the deal agreed, but the Spanish giants were left unable to sanction the move due to their dire financial position.

Barca had hoped the departure of Ousmane Dembele to Manchester United would ease pressure on their bloated wage structure, however, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side would only consider a loan move and ultimately decided not to persist with the deal.

As a result, Barca were unable to finance moves for Depay and Manchester City centre-back Eric Garcia, even if the former did not rule out a move next summer when his contract expires at Lyon.

“It is going as it should, that’s how I live life,” Depay said. “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.

“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.”

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