Real Sociedad captain Mikel Oyarzabal has rejected the opportunity to join Barcelona this summer, insisting he remains fully committed to the Basque club. The Spain international has ended speculation about a potential move to Camp Nou with a definitive statement reaffirming his loyalty to La Real.
Speaking to El Chiringuito, Oyarzabal made clear that declining Barcelona’s interest was never in doubt. He said he is “immensely happy” in San Sebastián and considers the city his home. The 29-year-old stressed that he is already “where I want to be” despite the Catalan club’s search for attacking reinforcements.
“Can you say no to Barcelona? Yes, you can,” he told the Spanish television programme. “Of course you can. There are players who have told them no.” His comments represent his firmest rejection of the speculation yet, having previously stated his contentment at the club throughout the summer.
The forward’s stance effectively ends weeks of rumours connecting him with a switch to the Liga champions. Oyarzabal holds a long-term contract at Anoeta that includes a €75 million release clause. Any potential suitor would have needed to meet this figure to force negotiations, yet the player himself has now removed any possibility of a transfer.
Barcelona forced to look elsewhere
With Oyarzabal now off the table, Barcelona are pursuing alternative targets to strengthen their forward line. Atlético Madrid’s Julián Álvarez remains the club’s primary objective, with manager Hansi Flick understood to have contacted the Argentina striker directly.
However, securing Álvarez’s signature presents significant obstacles. Atlético have indicated they have no intention of selling the former Manchester City forward, even though the player has reportedly requested to leave. Barcelona may need to explore other options if the Madrid club maintain their firm stance.
French forward Eli Junior Kroupi has emerged as another potential candidate for the Blaugrana. Yet he has attracted interest from several clubs this summer, making any deal complicated as Barcelona work against the clock to secure reinforcements.
A decade of service
Oyarzabal’s decision to stay aligns with his status as one of Real Sociedad’s most important players. The captain helped the club win two Copa del Rey trophies and passed the 100-goal mark in La Liga during the most recent campaign. He has spent his entire senior career with the Basque side since breaking into the first team more than ten years ago.
His rejection of Barcelona follows previous declarations of contentment throughout the summer transfer window. Real Sociedad have already conducted business with Barcelona this summer, but their captain will not form part of any future negotiations between the clubs. The Basque side can now plan for the new season knowing their attacking leader will remain at Anoeta.