Real Madrid waives rights to Willy Hernangómez, Barcelona in pole position

Real Madrid has decided not to exercise their right of first refusal for Willy Hernangómez, thus clearing the path for Barcelona to sign the recent EuroBasket MVP. According to AS, sources close to the player confirmed that Barcelona’s offer, exceeding four million euros per year, is beyond the budget of Real Madrid.

Despite his past in the Real’s youth team, Hernangómez appears inclined to sign for Barcelona, although he also has the option to continue his career in the NBA. After his contract with the New Orleans Pelicans expired last month, Hernangómez is now a free agent in the professional North American market.

“I played in the youth ranks of Real Madrid, but in the end, I want to play and feel important. I want to fight for titles. I’m not closing the door on anything. Barcelona is a winning and champion team… in the end, it’s a job, an opportunity,” stated Hernangómez.

It is almost certain that, following Real Madrid’s decision to forego the high cost of the right of first refusal, Hernangómez will be wearing the blaugrana shirt in the ACB from the next season.