Villarreal midfielder Alex Baena has no love lost with Real Madrid. It follows an incident that took place last season when Real Madrid midfielder Fede Valverde allegedly punched Baena in the parking lot after a game. Valverde claimed that Baena had insulted his unborn child during the game.
“I have not spoken to him [Valverde] again. I don't want to comment on anything," Baena said when asked about the incident.
Baena reflected on the abuse he suffered after the incident and how Real Madrid manipulates the media to suit their agenda.
"It is true that they were some very hard months personally. We already know what the press is like there, the club and the one in charge. But it's already past. In the end, a lie was told and it hurt me more for my family, who were harassed," Baena said.
The Villarreal man also expressed how much he would love to play for FC Barcelona.
“Who wouldn't like it? Playing for Barcelona is one of my biggest dreams. It is one of the best clubs in the world. Any player in the world would like to play for Barcelona. But I'm in the club of my life and I'm also happy to be here. Nothing has reached me or those around me. We are focused on finishing the season well,” Baena said.
The player also told Barca what it would take for them to get him.
“I have a release clause of 60 million euros. I think we have to talk to Fernando [Villarreal president] about this, but I think they would have to pay the 60m if they want me to leave,” Baena said.
Barcelona are highly unlikely to cough up €60m to sign Baena when they could easily pay less than that to get Joshua Kimmich.
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