From Neymar to Lionel Messi and Ousmane Dembele: PSG risks sparking new tensions with Barcelona amid potential double blow for Lamine Yamal and another star

Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona – two clubs linked by history, rivalry and high-profile transfers. By Neymar’s record-breaking $256 million move to the free transfer of Lionel Messi And Ousmane Dembélé’s bitter movethe relationship between the French and Spanish giants has long been defined by tension and ambition. But despite that complicated past, PSG is reportedly preparing for it knock on Barcelona’s door again.

This time the attention of the Parisian club is focused on Lamine Yamalthe teenage prodigy who took Europe by storm – and another player from the Catalan ranks whose name is whispered through the boardrooms in Paris. That’s what a French investigative journalist says Romain MolinaQatar, which controls PSG through Qatar Sports Investments, has made Yamal its ‘new obsession’.

“In Doha we said: ‘We want him’” Molina revealed that and added “Qatar’s decision-makers are willing to do anything to get him one day.” The report highlights how, at just 18 years old, Yamal has already become a global sensation and a symbol of Barcelona’s future.

The winger’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric. Since his debut at age 15, he is valued at more than $400 million by the CIES Football Observatory – making him not only the most expensive teenager in football, but also the most valuable player in the worldfor Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland and Jude Bellingham. Yet amid the obsession with Yamal, PSG’s plans run deeper – and their next target could surprise many.

PSG’s quiet pursuit of Barcelona’s defensive gem

Behind the scenes, PSG are reportedly plotting a second move – one that could see them Reuniting Luis Enrique with a player he knows well from his time as Spain manager. That player is Eric Garciathe 24-year-old defender who has quietly become one of Hansi Flick’s most consistent players at Barcelona.

According to The teamPSG does “working behind the scenes” to sign Garcia, who can play as either a center back or a right back. His contract runs until 2026, but with innovation conversations stagnatethe French club sees a potential opening. Paris can wait to sign him for free or negotiate a transfer affordable winter deal in January if Barcelona remains open for discussion.

Garcia has already played fifteen games this season, the most of any field player in Flick’s squad. His maturity, technical precision and versatility have made him an invaluable asset. Moreover, the player’s connection with the Parisians’ coach is crucial. The Spaniard deserved 19 caps for the national team under Luis Enriquewho continues to admire his intelligence and tactical insight. According to The teamEnrique considers him “the ideal defender for PSG’s game model.”

History repeating itself?

PSG’s interest in Garcia also stems from necessity. Achraf Hakimi’s recent injury has left a hole in the defense and the Paris backline has struggled with depth and rotation. Garcia’s ability to operate centrally or on the right offers Enrique a flexible option as PSG look for another Champions League title.

However, Barcelona are not willing to sell easily. Sports world reports that the Catalan club remains confident of an extension of Garcia’s dealwhere sporting director Deco held several meetings with the defender’s representatives. Flick also insists on innovation and describes Garcia as follows “an example of professionalism for younger players.”

Neymar and Lionel Messi played for Barcelona in 2014.

But the French side have made a career out of testing Barcelona’s resolve. Whether it was Neymar in 2017, Messi in 2021 or Ousmane Dembele in 2023, Paris has repeatedly lured Camp Nou’s brightest stars – often at times when Barca could least afford to lose them.