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<p>Chelsea is also showing interest.</p>
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<p><img alt="Barcelona wonderkid with Filipino roots set to leave for PSG - Who is Dro Fernández?" src="https://tmssl.akamaized.net//images/foto/galerie/fernandez-spotlight-1768817864-187500.png" title="Barcelona wonderkid with Filipino roots set to leave for PSG - Who is Dro Fernández?"></p>
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<p>While Lamine Yamal is currently the most valuable player at just 18 years old, Barcelona is nurturing another wave of young talent from their La Masia academy. One standout is Dro Fernández, a player who has already caught the attention of Hansi Flick and is gaining recognition far beyond Europe. Full name Pedro Fernández Sarmiento, he has Filipino roots through his mother, and his progress is being closely followed in the Philippines, thousands of kilometers away from Barcelona. His emergence brings to mind Paulino Alcántara, who made history by playing for both the Catalan and Philippine national teams over a century ago, winning 10 Catalan championships in the process.</p>
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<p>Initially, Fernández was set to play for Barça Atlétic in the lower division, but he impressed during pre-season and earned a spot in Flick’s squad when fit. Though he has limited first-team appearances, Flick has shown confidence in starting the talented teen in crucial matches. The 17-year-old made his starting XI debut against Real Sociedad this season and soon after played in the Champions League. However, it appears that his future may lie away from Camp Nou, as Paris Saint-Germain is reportedly close to finalizing a deal for him, with a market value of €10 million.</p>
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<p>The young midfielder has indicated to Barcelona that he desires to leave in search of more first-team opportunities, understanding that such chances may be limited at Camp Nou. Interest from clubs across Europe, including PSG and Chelsea, is mounting. With a €6 million release clause in his contract, PSG seems to be the frontrunner for his signature. Should he choose to move to Chelsea, he would follow in the footsteps of Marc Guiu, who was signed by the Premier League club after they activated a release clause for him in the summer of 2024. Let’s turn to Spain for more insights on this promising player.</p>
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<h2>Insights from Spain</h2>
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<p>“He is an exceptional player who will only improve,” Flick remarked about Fernández last year. “Dro possesses immense talent, and it’s evident in training. I truly enjoy watching him play.” A scout who monitors Fernández at every training session, Joan Gampar stated to <em>Transfermarkt</em>: “He has numerous positive traits. He's strong in one-on-one situations, showcases impressive dribbling skills, and excels in stepovers. He’s a significant talent, though he still needs to enhance his physical presence and finishing ability.”</p>
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<p>Originally from Galicia, near the Portuguese border, Fernández joined Barça from ED Val Miñor Nigrán and quickly climbed the ranks. Over three years, he progressed from the U15s to the first team and was pivotal in winning the Youth League last season. Despite his achievements, he remains grounded. “He was always an easy-going, down-to-earth boy,” reflected his first coach, Luis Pérez, in an interview with <em>Sport</em>. “He was quite shy initially, but eventually became comfortable. I recall watching him compete against older kids, where he initially blended in, and then, suddenly, he would shine brilliantly.”</p>
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<p>Although Fernández has made a positive impression on the first team, significantly increasing his market value to €10 million, his former coach advises patience regarding his development. “He isn’t the type of player who will immediately leave a significant mark, but with more playing time, his confidence will multiply, as he has more to offer than he has already displayed,” Pérez added. The lingering question remains: what is his optimal position? Is he best suited as a no.10, a no.8, or a winger?</p>
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