While FC Barcelona’s new signing, Ferran Torres, is raring to get started after completing his move from Manchester City, he may have to wait a little more, as he has tested positive for COVID-19 just hours after his signing.

Torres has signed a five-and-a-half-year contract, which is understood to be worth an initial £46.7 million and a further £8.5 million in potential add-ons.

Barca have set a €1 billion (£841 million) buy-out clause into the deal.

He had hoped to be back in action for the Spanish Super Cup semi-final against Real Madrid on January 12, but this could be delayed due to the virus.

In a statement on Monday evening, the Catalan club said the 21-year-old, along with team-mate Pedri tested positive for the virus.

“Pedri and Ferran Torres have tested positive for COVID-19. The players are in good health and are isolated at home,” the club said.

On Monday morning, Torres was presented at the Nou Camp and spoke of having his focus set firmly on taking the LaLiga giants back to their former glories.

“I am facing this challenge with ambition, humility, and a lot of desire,” he said. “When I left Manchester City, I had the idea of coming back to LaLiga, and Barca showed an interest. I am an ambitious player, and I like challenges. I want to take Barca back to where it belongs.”

Torres signed for Manchester City from Valencia in the summer of 2020 for £20.9 million. But he spent just 16 months at the Etihad Stadium, scoring 16 goals in 43 appearances in all competitions.

This season, the forward had made only seven club appearances after breaking a metatarsal while on international duty during October.

(dpa/NAN)