The transfer market is entering its most decisive phase and some unexpected moves are starting to take shape. One of the most surprising is the one linking Atlético de Madrid with a footballer from FC Barcelona, who, until recently, seemed to have his future at the Catalan club guaranteed.
Diego Simeone's team has directly conveyed its interest to the blaugrana sporting management. Sources close to the matter state that this isn't just a simple inquiry, but a serious offer to bring him in this summer. Meanwhile, the player would be open to listening to the proposal if his role at Barça remains limited.
In the Barça board, led by Deco, they aren't ruling out his departure. Although the footballer is well regarded internally, the possibility of strengthening the squad with a profile that covers urgent needs makes the operation attractive.
A change of plans in Barça's planning
The initial plan for the season was clear: keep the young core and consolidate the team's most outstanding prospects. However, the recent departure of an experienced defender has drastically altered the blaugrana squad's plans.
The departure has created an obvious gap in a line that was already somewhat short on personnel. Hansi Flick has been clear with Deco: if there's a departure, an immediate reinforcement must arrive to fill that position. The goal isn't to increase the squad size, but to balance it in key areas for the season.
Atlético, aware of this need, has put a hard-to-refuse proposal on the table for Barça. They wouldn't just offer a player who fits Flick's requirements perfectly, but would also facilitate a quick and beneficial agreement for all parties involved.
The profile Barça is looking for
The club's technical department believes the best way to solve this situation is through a direct swap. The idea is to avoid compromising the budget while also acquiring a footballer who can immediately join the rotation.
The desired profile is well defined: a player capable of playing both as a central defender and as a full-back. He must have experience in top-level matches and the ability to adapt to the blaugrana style. This versatility is essential for a season with so many competitive fronts open.
Atlético's proposal meets most of those requirements, and at Barça, they appreciate that the transfer wouldn't involve a major expense. The key is to finalize the last details before the market officially closes.
A strategic operation with a lot at stake
The board knows that accepting this swap involves a risk: the player who would leave still has room for growth. However, the urgency to fill the defensive gap and the suitability of the footballer offered by Atlético tip the balance toward acceptance.
The last days of the market are expected to be intense, with talks progressing and the parties getting closer to a final agreement. If no setbacks arise, the official announcement could be made before the transfer window closes.
Finally, the surprise is revealed: Atlético want Marc Casadó, and Barça is considering swapping him for a red-and-white full-back or central defender to cover Iñigo Martínez's departure.
