Barcelona have officially confirmed the departure of young midfielder Toni Fernandez, who will continue his career with Italian club Venezia. The 18-year-old leaves after spending eight years within the Catalan club’s structure, following a mutual agreement to bring his time at Camp Nou to an end.
Deal Structure and Financial Details
In their official statement, Barcelona confirmed they have retained a future buy-back option on the player, as well as a percentage of any future transfer fee. Venezia, meanwhile, revealed that the move initially takes the form of a loan, with an obligation to make the transfer permanent once certain conditions are met.
According to Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo, the agreement stipulates that Fernandez will join Venezia on loan, with the purchase becoming mandatory for €4 million once he features in three matches for his new Italian side.
From La Masia to First Team
The young midfielder now embarks on a new chapter in his career after progressing through Barcelona’s famed academy. He joined La Masia in the summer of 2018 from Espanyol, rising through the various youth ranks before eventually breaking into the first-team setup.
Toni Fernandez made his Barcelona debut on January 4, 2025, during a Copa del Rey clash against Barbastro, coming on as a substitute for Pablo Torre. At 16 years, 5 months, and 17 days old, he became the second-youngest player to make his first-team debut for Barcelona in the 21st century, behind only Lamine Yamal.
He was handed another opportunity last season under German coach Hansi Flick, who named him in the starting lineup against Girona at the Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium, though he was withdrawn at half-time.
In total, Fernandez made just two appearances for Barcelona’s first team before deciding to take on a new challenge in Italian football. The Catalan club, however, retains the option to bring him back in the future.
Player's Reaction to the Move
Speaking to Venezia’s official website, Fernandez expressed his enthusiasm for the switch: “I chose Venezia because of the important project they presented to me and the confidence they showed in 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: “Since I learned of Venezia’s interest in signing me, I started following the team’s matches, and I want to tell the fans that together we can and must achieve our goals.”
