Barcelona seal deal for Semedo, end Bellerin chase

ajike July 14, 2017

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Benfica's Portuguese defender Nelson Semedo during the Premier League 2016/17 match between Pacos Ferreira and SL Benfica, at Mata Real Stadium in Pacos de Ferreira on March 18, 2017. (Photo by Pedro Lopes / DPI / NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Barcelona have announced the signing of Nelson Semedo from Benfica, subject to the player passing a medical.

The right-back is expected to sign a five-year contract at Camp Nou after an initial fee of €30million was agreed between the clubs.

The Catalans hope to have Semedo travel with the squad next Wednesday for their pre-season tour of the United States.

Barca reportedly turned to Semedo after being rebuffed by Arsenal in their pursuit of Hector Bellerin, with a new right-back having been designated one of their priorities for next season.

The 23-year-old Portugal international is new coach Ernesto Valverde’s third signing of the transfer window, following the arrivals of Gerard Deulofeu and young centre-back Marlon.

President Josep Maria Bartomeu stated this week that they hope to complete “two or three” deals before the window closes next month.

[BREAKING NEWS] Agreement with Benfica to sign Nélson Semedo, pending medical tests tomorrow in Barcelona https://t.co/o5ldP2I5ke pic.twitter.com/JjQdQ3q1pF

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) July 13, 2017