Barcelona sign Andre Gomes from Valencia and give Javier Mascherano new deal

The Catalans have signed midfielder Andre Gomes from Valencia for an initial 35m euros (£29.3m), and given Javier Mascherano a new three-year contract.

Gomes, 22, has joined Barcelona after helping Portugal win Euro 2016, and could cost a further 20m euros (£16.7m) in add-on fees.

“Barca relates to my way of playing football and my identity,” said Gomes.

Andre Gomes made 77 appearances for Valencia in two seasons after joining from Portuguese side Benfica

It is an honour to wear this jersey. It’s a dream come true for me and for my family,’ he said. ‘I’ve chosen what I believe is the best option for me and I haven’t made a mistake. I had no doubt. When I found out that Barca wanted me, I was thrilled.

‘There are many players in Barcelona’s central midfield and they are all great. I just want to continue to grow, learn and at 22 I have time to do that.’

On the other hand, Barcelona have ended speculation regarding Javier Mascherano’s future, confirming the former Liverpool midfielder has signed a new deal committing himself to the Nou Camp until 2019.

The club’s technical secretary, Robert Fernandez, also revealed that the club will complete their summer overhaul with the signing of a new forward, following the recruitment of Denis Suarez, Samuel Umtiti, Lucas Digne and Andre Gomes.

Gomes is the club’s fourth summer signing, after French defenders Samuel Umtiti and Lucas Digne joined from Lyon and Paris St-Germain respectively, and Denis Suarez re-signed after a season at Villarreal

“Javier Mascherano will continue at FC Barcelona until 30 June 2019, as announced by Director of Professional Sports Albert Soler during the press conference for Andre Gomes’ presentation,” the club confirmed on their official website. “The Argentine will be extending his current deal by a further year.”