FC Barcelona Receives Unexpected Funding To Make Signings, Reports SPORT

FC Barcelona is set to receive a significant financial boost from an unexpected sponsorship deal with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). According to reports cited by SPORT, the club has agreed to a three-year collaboration with the DRC's Ministry of Sports and Tourism. As part of the deal, Barcelona will display the DRC's tourism promotion logo, 'DRC, the heart of Africa', on the sleeve of their first-team shirt. This agreement is reportedly worth €10 million per season, totaling €30 million.

This funding is expected to assist Barcelona in making further signings during the summer transfer window and beyond. The club has already signed goalkeeper Joan Garcia from Espanyol for €25 million, a move potentially signaling the end of Marc-Andre ter Stegen's tenure as he is reportedly deemed surplus to requirements by manager Hansi Flick.

Barcelona had also pursued Athletic Club winger Nico Williams, reportedly agreeing personal terms. However, Williams unexpectedly signed a long-term contract extension with Athletic Club until 2035, significantly increasing his release clause beyond €90 million. This development forced Barcelona to look at alternatives like Liverpool's Luis Diaz or Manchester United's Marcus Rashford, who would also be expensive.

The €30 million injection from the DRC deal, if finalized following Minister Didier Budumbu's visit to Barcelona, will help finance these potential transfers. Beyond the sponsorship, Barcelona has also reportedly agreed to support schools and launch humanitarian projects in the DRC through its Barca Foundation.