Joan Laporta is at a crucial moment regarding Ansu Fati's future. The forward, who promised to be one of FC Barcelona's great figures, has been losing prominence over time.
The arrival of Hansi Flick and the current sporting demands have relegated the '10' to a secondary role. This, combined with the club's delicate financial situation, has led Barça to seriously consider his departure.
Celta de Vigo, led by Rafa Benítez, is one of the teams interested in acquiring Ansu's services. However, the Galician club's financial offer has left Laporta unsatisfied. Celta is willing to pay only one million euros, which would mean Barça would have to assume a large part of the salary.
Barça's stance and Laporta's demands
Laporta, aware of Ansu Fati's value, is not willing to let him go for such a low figure. The president has valued the forward at 20 million euros, but the current market doesn't seem willing to reach that amount. A loan seems the only viable option, although with the condition that the receiving club takes on the player's salary.
Celta, meanwhile, sees Ansu Fati as a unique opportunity to strengthen their attack. However, their financial resources are limited, making it difficult to reach an agreement. Joan Laporta has been adamant about it: "For only one million, Ansu will not leave Barça."
An exchange as an alternative solution
In the midst of negotiations, an interesting possibility has arisen for both parties: a player exchange. Barça has proposed the option of incorporating Óscar Mingueza, Celta's central defender and a Barça youth academy graduate, as part of the deal for Ansu Fati.
The idea makes sense from Barça's point of view. Mingueza, with experience in LaLiga and a deep understanding of the Barça style, could be a useful piece in Flick's defensive rotation. Additionally, his signing would allow Barça to cover the departure of another defender or add depth to the team.
For Celta, the exchange is also attractive. Mingueza could leave to make way for an offensive player like Ansu Fati, who could revitalize his career in a team where he would have more prominence.
Hansi Flick plays an essential role in Ansu Fati's future. Although he initially trusted the young striker, a foot injury and lack of consistency in his performance have changed the coach's priorities. Flick now prefers more dynamic profiles and less injury-prone players, which has reduced Ansu's options in the team.
On the other hand, Flick has also considered the possibility of strengthening his defense with a versatile player like Mingueza. This option wouldn't only alleviate the club's financial tensions but could also strengthen the team's tactical options.
An uncertain future for Ansu Fati
Ansu Fati's future remains uncertain. Although his talent is undeniable, injuries and lack of continuity have stalled his progress. If the deal with Celta de Vigo doesn't go through, other options in LaLiga or even in foreign leagues could come into play.
Meanwhile, Laporta and Deco are working to find a solution that benefits Barça and allows Ansu to regain his best form. The exchange with Mingueza seems a real possibility, but negotiations are far from closed.
With the winter market underway, the coming weeks will be key to defining Ansu Fati's future. Celta de Vigo remains the main candidate, but the terms of the agreement must satisfy all parties.
Joan Laporta is clear that he will not yield at any price. Ansu Fati, meanwhile, is looking for a new beginning that allows him to prove he still has much to offer elite football.