Ferran Torres has had a campaign of ups and downs, where he has stood out as a game-changer but has raised doubts as a starter. Hansi Flick has found him useful in specific moments, but he doesn't see him as an indispensable piece. Therefore, the club is already studying alternatives that allow them to leverage his market value more strategically.
The Valencian winger still has a good reputation in England, and several Premier League clubs have inquired about him in recent months. However, Barça prefers a different approach: a direct swap with another LaLiga club. Villarreal presents itself as the perfect partner for that operation.
Direct Contact Between Coaches
Flick and Marcelino have maintained a relationship of mutual respect since their shared times in Europe. The German has taken advantage of this direct line to open an operation that could benefit both teams. The proposal is simple: Ferran Torres would go to Villarreal, but instead of money, a footballer that Flick wants to incorporate as soon as possible would arrive.
Barça's sports management has already given preliminary approval to the idea. It is an operation that fits both sportingly and economically. Although the talks are still in the initial phase, Barça is already working on preparing the details of the agreement.
Villarreal sees the possible arrival of Ferran Torres favorably. Marcelino believes he can recover his best version, give him confidence, and make him shine as he did in Valencia. Moreover, his profile as a vertical and scoring winger fits the needs of the 'Yellow Submarine.'
Meanwhile, the player would welcome a change of scenery if it allows him to have more continuity. At Barça, he doesn't have a place as a starter, and the competition in his position is fierce. An environment like Villarreal could be ideal for regaining prominence and relaunching his career.
The Profile Flick Seeks to Strengthen the Midfield
While Ferran would fit into Marcelino's scheme, Barça's target also has a specific name. Flick is looking for a young, technical footballer with great capacity for the final pass and the personality to take on leadership roles. Someone who complements Pedri, Gavi, and De Jong in the midfield and contributes to reaching the area.
This player stands out for his vision, intensity, and ability to create danger from the second line. He is someone who has been observed by Barça's technical staff for several seasons. Now, with the possibility of the swap on the table, his signing has become a priority.
Joan Laporta and Deco consider this move a golden opportunity to strengthen a strategic position without making a significant investment. The goal is to close the operation as soon as possible so that the player arrives in preseason and can quickly integrate into Flick's style. Moreover, there is already a preliminary agreement with the player's entourage.
From Villarreal's side, they also see the possible swap favorably. The arrival of Ferran Torres would more than compensate for the departure of the player that Barça has in its sights. Both clubs could come out winning if they manage to adjust the final details of the agreement.
The Hidden Gem Barça Wants
The player Barça wants to take from Villarreal in exchange for Ferran Torres is none other than Álex Baena. The Andalusian midfielder is one of the brightest talents in LaLiga and an obsession for Hansi Flick since he arrived on the Barça bench. His youth, offensive talent, and maturity make him a safe bet for the immediate future.
Baena has excelled this season at Villarreal, being key in the team's interior play. With dribbling, vision, and goals, he fits perfectly into Barça's style. Moreover, he has expressed his admiration for the club on more than one occasion, which would further facilitate his arrival at Camp Nou.
The agreement is not yet closed, but the pieces are falling into place. If there are no setbacks, Ferran will wear yellow... and Baena, blaugrana.