All major sporting media in Spain are reporting on Sunday Barcelona’s imminent signing of Sporting Gijon left back José Ángel on a four year deal. Negotiations are reportedly in their final phase, with a final announcement due as early as Monday. Barcelona will pay Gijon approximately four million Euros, and may send a Barça B defender to Sporting on loan as part of the arrangement. Marc Bartra, Marc Muniesa and Andreu Fontàs are all being named as potential loanees.
At 22, Ángel has been one of the bright lights in Gijon this season. After his debut with the first team in 2009, he has been a solid presence in the Sporting defense. He also plays for the Spanish U-21 national squad.
UPDATE: According to Sport, it seems that FC Barcelona is unhappy that the news of their potential signing of José Ángel was leaked in the media. The meeting between Sporting Gijon and Barcelona will now be postponed, according to Sport, until after the Champions League final as the club seeks to avoid distractions before the game.