Fans say ‘this can’t be a thing?’ as Golden AGENT award is given to rep at centre of Chelsea and Liverpool transfer war
FOOTBALL fans are baffled after after it was announced Ali Barat will receive the Golden Agent Award for brokering Moises Caicedo’s £115million move to Chelsea.
Barat, owner of the company EPIC Sports who also represent Blues forward Nicolas Jackson, represented Caicedo as he sought a way out of Brighton in the summer.
It initially looked as though he was going to join Liverpool after the Seagulls agreed a £111m fee for the midfielder, 22, in the summer.
But he then opted against joining the Anfield outfit, before Barat helped get a £115m deal over the line with Chelsea.
Barat will receive the Golden Agent Award in Turin on Monday at a ceremony that will also see Jude Bellingham claim the Golden Boy honour.
Reacting to being named the winning agent, Barat said: “I am proud and honored to receive the Golden Agent award 2023, representing this fantastic team.
“On behalf of Epic Sports, I would like to thank Tuttosport, in particular Massimo Franchi and the whole organization of the Golden Boy Awards, for rewarding our passion, commitment and results.
“I can’t wait to share our excitement and gratitude with all of you. See you in Turin!”
But football fans have trashed the idea of an agent receiving such an honour.
And they took to social media to air their strong views.
One said: “Is this a real award ? I mean how hard can it be maybe a few phone calls and getting Chelsea to part with £100m?”
Another added: “Getting an award for sending his player to a complete mess .”
A third replied: “That can’t seriously be a thing, can it?”
While a fourth responded: “Next awards given for worst VAR decisions .”
Caicedo has made 14 appearances for Chelsea since arriving at Stamford Bridge.
He is yet to register a goal contribution, but has started seven of the Blues’ last eight Premier League matches.