Barcelona Transfer News: Securing Future of Christian Tello Is Big Move for Club

During the transfer season, it is often just as important to hold on to current players as it is to acquire new ones. This makes the re-signing of Christian Tello one of the bigger moves of the summer for Barcelona.

There was certainly a doubt that the 22-year-old forward would remain at Camp Nou by the start of September. According to Dermot Corrigan of ESPN, his €10 million buy-out clause allowed a few clubs a chance to bring him in:

"

Tello’s previous deal, signed in December 2012, had contained that buy-out clause, leading to speculation the winger could be picked up as a bargain by interested clubs including Liverpool or Tottenham Hotspur.

However, the Spain international agreed a new deal earlier this month that ties him to the club until the end of the 2017-18 season, and contains a more realistic buyout clause of €25 million.

"

This new contract is certain to keep away suitors and allow Tello to remain with Barcelona for the next few years.

While the youngster is often overlooked on a loaded roster, he is poised to become one of the top offensive players in La Liga. In only 12 starts and 10 more appearances last season, he finished with seven goals and four assists.

Besides the numbers, he also showcased excellent pace as well as good dribbling ability to beat defenders one-on-one with the ball. As he gains experience and matures physically, he has every chance to be a key player going forward for Barcelona.

The biggest problem with him is opportunity. He obviously is not getting any starts over Lionel Messi, and the presence of Pedro and Alexis Sanchez takes away chances as well.

However, the club has dealt with a number of injuries in the past few years and constantly need cover for its best players. Messi has already suffered a bruised thigh this season and missed a number of matches last season due to other leg injuries.

Considering Barca is able to fill in for the world-class striker with someone like Tello, they can continue to utilize their great offense without missing a beat.

With Real Madrid challenging for a league title every year, every point matters. They cannot afford to get losses or even ties just because of injuries or fatigue.

However, the big thing that Tello provides is confidence in the future. As the rest of the roster continues to age, the 22-year-old player will only get better and will soon be the one that the club counts on to win.

This could not be achieved if he was allowed to leave this summer. Fortunately, Barcelona made a smart move by holding onto a good young player.

Follow Rob Goldberg on Twitter for the latest breaking news and analysis.