By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
Barcelona is reportedly considering Ibon Navarro as a potential head coach target if Xavi Pascual decides to accept an offer from Dubai, according to a report by Spanish outlet SUR.
The report describes a possible domino effect involving several clubs across the European basketball landscape. Dubai is said to be aggressively pursuing Pascual, while Barcelona could turn to Unicaja’s successful head coach in response.
SUR adds that Unicaja had recently been optimistic about extending Navarro’s contract with an improved financial offer, despite the coach already being under contract through 2027.
However, the Malaga-based club reportedly became aware in recent days that Navarro is highly regarded internally by Barcelona’s basketball department.
According to the report, Barcelona would need to pay a buyout clause estimated at around €300,000 to release Navarro from his Unicaja contract.
The situation is also connected to Barcelona’s financial outlook. SUR reports that Pascual had hoped for a more ambitious EuroLeague project, but the Catalan club is still expected to operate under financial limitations similar to those from recent seasons.
If Pascual ultimately accepts Dubai’s offer, Barcelona would reportedly accelerate its pursuit of Navarro, potentially leaving Unicaja searching for a new head coach ahead of a crucial period for the club’s future project.