By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
Thomas Heurtel landed in Barcelona to finalize his deal with the Spanish powerhouse, bringing his family from China, but the operation has reportedly been stopped.
According to Marc Mundet, the deal has been halted, and Barcelona may not sign the French point guard after all.
If that’s the case, then it’s unprecedented for a deal to be off the table, even before the medical exams due to other reasons, when the team has already invited the player from the other side of the world.
Meanwhile, Heurtel spoke to Spanish media at the airport, emphasizing his happiness at being back with his old team.
“My agent was in talks with them, and I think it’s a good opportunity for both the club and me. I am more than prepared and motivated. I’m really looking forward to getting started,” Heurtel said.
The 35-year-old has been following Barcelona’s recent struggles.
“I’ve been following everything. They’re going through a difficult time, but we’ll try to turn things around as soon as possible.”
He added that he had spoken with coach Joan Pennarroya and he is ready to help the team.
“I haven’t changed. I’m the same Thomas but with more maturity and better play. My qualities won’t change. I’m very happy and looking forward to meeting the group. The conversation I had with the coach remains between us, but I’m very happy. I’ve never been like this. I’ve trained a lot during my time in China, so my fitness is not a problem. I’m fine.”
Thomas also sent a message to Barcelona’s fans.
“I’ll have time to talk to them and the people I need to speak with. But I am really looking forward to getting started and giving the team a boost.”
Heurtel had a strong start to his first stint at Barcelona (2017-2021), winning the Copa del Rey MVP twice. However, a knee injury and a reduced role under Jasikevicius led to tensions and his departure. After a brief spell at ASVEL, he joined Madrid but failed to meet expectations and parted ways after one season.
Heurtel then played for Zenit St. Petersburg for two years, receiving a ban from the French national team, before spending a few months at Shenzhen in China earlier this season.