After 8 years: Barcelona announce departure of their player by special agreement
Barcelona have confirmed the exit of teenage forward Toni Fernandez to Italian side Venezia, ending the 18-year-old's eight-year association with the Catalan club.
The Blaugrana's statement made clear they hold a buy-back clause on the player, along with a percentage of any future sale. Venezia, for their part, revealed the deal began as a loan carrying a mandatory purchase clause once certain conditions are met.
According to "Mundo Deportivo", the terms send Fernandez to Venezia on loan, with his purchase for four million euros becoming obligatory the moment he makes three appearances for his new club.
A new chapter now opens for the youngster after years in Barcelona's academy. He arrived at La Masia in the summer of 2018 from Espanyol, then climbed through every age group to reach the first team.
Fernandez made his senior debut on 4 January 2025, coming off the bench in place of Pablo Torre against Barbastro in the Copa del Rey.
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Aged 16 years, five months and 17 days, he became the second youngest player to feature for Barcelona's first team this century, behind only Lamine Yamal.
German coach Hansi Flick handed him another chance last season, starting him against Girona at the Lluis Companys Olympic Stadium before withdrawing him at half-time.
Just two first-team appearances, then, before Fernandez opted for a fresh test in Italian football. The Catalan club can still recall him down the line.
The player told Venezia's official website: "I chose Venezia because of the important project they presented to me, and the trust they gave me from the very first moment. Leaving home is never easy, but I am very excited to give my best and take on this new challenge."
He added: "Ever since I learned of Venezia's interest in signing me, I began following the team's matches, and I want to say to the fans that, together, we can and must achieve our goals."
