Marco Verratti is a ‘prisoner of the Emir of Qatar’ as PSG refuse to let him join Barcelona
Midfielder's agent hits out at PSG chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi for blocking dream switch as Barca admit defeat in chase
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MARCO VERRATTI is a 'prisoner of the Emir of Qatar', according to his agent Donato Di Campli.
The Paris Saint-Germain midfielder is Barcelona's top target this summer but they French side are refusing to listen to offers.
And despite the player's personal plea to leave, Barca have been forced to accept it will be 'almost impossible' to sign their man.
And Di Campli has hit out at PSG's Qatari chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi for blocking the 26-year-old's dream switch.
Speaking to , he said: "Verratti is a prisoner of the emir at PSG.
"Not selling him to Barca for 100million euros has become a matter of pride.
"Marco is perfectly aware of his contractual commitments to PSG, but it is normal that he feels flattered by the interest of Barca. Who would not be?"
New Nou Camp boss Ernesto Valverde is desperate to add Verratti to his squad after identifying him as the perfect long-term replacement for Andres Iniesta.
The Italy international held secret talks with the La Liga giants in Ibiza last month – and subsequently rejected a £200k-a-week contract extension with the French runners-up.
And Barcelona president Joseph Maria Bartomeu confirmed Verratti is desperate to join the club.
And, , his current club have claimed that will be almost impossible to get him - despite his wishes.
Speaking to , he said: "We know that the player is delighted to come to Barca.
"But when you call PSG, their president tells us that he is not for sale and there is no release clause.
"So for now we have not sat down with PSG despite having the player's willingness to come to Barca. Now we must accept it.
"The player has said that he wants to leave but the PSG tells him that he will be able to go but when his contract ends."
