Barcelona has activated a new scenario in its sports planning that hasn't left anyone indifferent. In recent hours, the club has started listening to offers for a highly valued player in the first team. The decision is part of a clear strategy driven by Deco, with a top priority in mind.
After years of financial adjustments, Barça doesn't consider major departures without a solid justification. However, this particular move is directly linked to a bigger operation. To complete a key signing, the club could sacrifice a footballer who, until now, was considered an essential part of the project.
From within the blaugrana organization, they insist that this isn't a forced sale, but it is acceptable if a significant proposal arrives. The sports management is clear that they have to make tough decisions if they want to compete at the highest level. Deco, as the main person in charge of the area, has already put a figure on the table.
A strategic sale to facilitate the big summer move
Barça's sporting director has been one of the main drivers of the change in direction this summer. After completing the signing of Joan García for €25 million, he is working to finalize his next big operation: signing Nico Williams. The Athletic Club winger is a top priority and his release clause stands at €58 million.
Although the transfer fee is manageable, the problem lies in his registration by LaLiga. Financial control requires freeing up wage bill and, in this context, a major sale could unlock everything. The operation is not just a matter of money, but of institutional balance.
Deco is clear that the new signing must be accompanied by a well-considered departure. He doesn't want to dismantle the young core, but he does consider adjusting pieces if necessary. The priority is to provide Hansi Flick with a balanced squad, without compromising the club's financial stability.
With several names on the list of possible transfers, the sports management has prioritized one in particular. His performance has been positive, but his departure would generate an immediate economic impact. In addition, it would allow direct entry for a player with the profile Flick is demanding.
The price is already set, and it's not negotiable
Internally, Barça has already set the asking price for this operation: €60 million. That is the figure that will allow the club to register Nico Williams without problems and keep the rest of the signings in order. Negotiations for variables are not ruled out, but the club's position is clear: there will be no discounts.
Although other players like Christensen or Pau Víctor could also leave, this particular case represents a more significant decision. This isn't an urgent sale, but it is strategic. From the footballer's camp, they have already started to consider different scenarios for the immediate future.
Flick has shown his appreciation for the player in question and, in principle, was counting on him for the season, he also understands the need to prioritize resources. Internal competition will be high and there are positions where the distribution of minutes will be limited. The final decision will depend on whether or not a firm offer arrives.
Meanwhile, Deco keeps the roadmap, He wants to finalize the signing of Nico Williams in the coming weeks and make sure that his arrival doesn't compromise the overall planning. To do so, he needs to free up space. The player chosen to do so has already been identified.
Fermín López, the sacrificed one
The name at the center of this entire movement is Fermín López. The Andalusian midfielder, one of last season's revelations, has been valued at €60 million by Barça. Although this isn't considered a priority sale, it is seen as viable if the right offer arrives.
Fermín has shown personality, goal-scoring ability, and a unique profile in midfield. However, the arrival of new signings and the need to balance the books have reopened the debate about his continuity. Deco values him, but he is clear that Nico Williams is now the number one target.
If any club—possibly from the Premier League or LaLiga—decides to match that figure, Barça will give the green light. Meanwhile, Fermín keeps training as usual, aware that his name is already part of the big moves in this summer market.