Barcelona are on the verge of sealing a deal for one of Scandinavia’s most exciting young prospects—Roony Bardghji. The 19-year-old Swedish winger, who made headlines in the UEFA Champions League last season, is set to join the Catalan giants from FC Copenhagen for a reported fee of €2 million plus add-ons. Though the transfer awaits official confirmation, all indications point to it being a done deal, with only the medical examination left to complete.

A Bargain Transfer for a Promising Future

Roony Bardghji’s relatively low transfer fee has raised eyebrows, but it’s primarily due to his expiring contract with Copenhagen in December 2024.

Barcelona Finalise Deal for Young Swedish Winger Roony Bardghji — MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – MARCH 6: Roony Bardghji of FC Kobenhavn controls the ball during the UEFA Champions League 2023/24 round of 16 second leg match between Manchester City and F.C. Copenhagen at Etihad Stadium on March 6, 2024 in Manchester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)

Despite a major ACL injury that ruled him out for nearly a year, the teenager remains one of Europe’s most promising attacking talents. His record last season—11 goals including a strike in a famous 4-3 Champions League win over Manchester United—was enough to convince Barcelona to act.

Deco’s Role in Sealing the Deal

Barcelona’s sporting director Deco played a pivotal part in pushing the move forward. On Monday, Deco met Bardghji’s representatives to finalise terms. According to ESPN, “Barça see Bardghji as a talent for the future and the idea is for him to train with the first team but start playing with the second team.” However, his potential inclusion in the upcoming preseason tour of Asia suggests the club may already be considering him for more immediate involvement.

Scouted Since 2022: A Long-Term Project

Barcelona’s interest in Bardghji isn’t sudden. The club had been tracking him since 2022, when his name was first flagged by the youth scouting department. By March 2023, he was grouped with Hugo Larsson as one of Sweden’s most exciting young prospects, especially after impressing during a U21 clash against Scotland with his explosive speed, dribbling prowess, and signature left-footed finesse from the right flank.

Roony bardghji — COPENHAGEN, DENMARK – NOVEMBER 02: Roony Bardghji of Copenhagen controls the ball during the UEFA Champions League group G match between FC Copenhagen and Borussia Dortmund at Parken Stadium on November 02, 2022 in Copenhagen, Denmark. (Photo by Marvin Ibo Guengoer – GES Sportfoto/Getty Images)

SPORT reports that Barcelona’s scouts were particularly drawn to his classic winger style—one who thrives in one-on-one situations and brings width, unpredictability, and flair to the game.

Injury Struggles and Redemption

The path to this deal wasn’t straightforward. Bardghji suffered an ACL tear in early 2024, just as interest in him was peaking across Europe. Clubs, including Barcelona, became cautious. But the player’s camp continued pushing for a formal agreement. After an 11-month recovery, Bardghji returned to competitive action, reigniting Barça’s interest.

Soon after his return, Deco was seen holding talks with his agents—timed closely with Barcelona’s Copa del Rey tie against Atletico Madrid. That meeting proved decisive, as the deal accelerated in the days that followed.

What’s Next for Bardghji at Barça?

Although Bardghji is expected to start with Barcelona Atlètic (the B team), the door remains open for rapid elevation to the senior squad. His performances during preseason will likely influence Hansi Flick’s decision.

Regardless, the transfer signals a broader vision under Deco and Flick—prioritising young, technically gifted talent for long-term team building.

FAQs

Who is Roony Bardghji?

Roony Bardghji is a 19-year-old Swedish winger born in Kuwait, who played for FC Copenhagen and is known for his pace, dribbling, and technical skill.