In Barcelona's offices, a game-changing move was being orchestrated for this summer transfer window. It was a discreet operation, with the scent of a dreamed return and the unanimous backing of the sporting management. The piece fit perfectly into the new puzzle Hansi Flick is building.
He was a player who had grown up at La Masia, who knew the club and had made his breakthrough in European soccer. Deco had been working for months to bring him back, with direct contact with his entourage and the clubs involved. Everything seemed on track, but an unexpected rival has disrupted Barça's plan.
Chelsea has burst into the race with force and has gone all out to convince him. The new blue coach, Enzo Maresca, believes he is a perfect fit for his play style. The London club is preparing an offer close to €70 million and a contract that's hard to match.
Barça, against the ropes facing the Premier's power
The Catalan club, aware of its financial limitations, has tried to negotiate alternatives to stay in the fight. A loan with a purchase option, a deferred payment, or even a percentage of a future sale. But from Germany, where the player is currently playing, the conditions are being set firmly.
Meanwhile, Flick has given the green light to the return and has informed Deco of his interest in having him in the locker room. He believes he can be essential in his system, playing as a creative midfielder or even as a winger in certain matches. His versatility and knowledge of Barça's style are his main assets.
Despite the shared desire of the coach, sporting management, and players, the operation is becoming more complicated as days go by. From London, they insist they have the advantage if Barça doesn't react immediately. Chelsea's sporting project comes with more resources and fewer salary limitations.
An emotional bet with internal support
Several first-team players have expressed their desire to see the footballer return to Camp Nou. Alejandro Balde, a personal friend since the youth ranks, has been one of the most active in this regard. Other academy graduates have also expressed their excitement about a possible reunion in the squad.
The signing would not only bring quality but also stability to a young locker room that needs role models of the same mold. This footballer understands positional play, knows the Barça automatisms, and masters the interior areas with clarity. Flick believes he could become a new technical leader if his arrival is finalized.
However, the negotiations have stalled in recent hours and everything indicates that the final decision is near. The player's entourage continues to prioritize Barça, but they can't wait indefinitely. The English pressure has increased and with each passing day, the outcome drifts further from Barcelona.
Time is running against Deco
Chelsea is clear: it wants to close the deal as soon as possible and leave Barça with no room to react. Maresca wants him now for the preseason and the club is willing to pay whatever is necessary to get him. The operation is considered a priority within the new project at Stamford Bridge.
In contrast, Barça hasn't taken the definitive step that could tip the balance in its favor. Laporta and Deco know they can't compete in numbers, but they appeal to the heart and the emotional bond. It only remains to be seen if that will be enough against the Premier League's push.
Because in this case we're not talking about Gavi, or Fermín, or Marc Casadó. Nor is it just any player who passed through the academy without leaving a mark. It's about Xavi Simons, one of the most sought-after talents on the continent, and his future will be decided in the coming days.
