The last few days have brought an unexpected storm to Camp Nou. According to this outlet, Atlético de Madrid has submitted a formal offer of €80 million ($86.6 million) for one of FC Barcelona's most valuable pieces. However, what has surprised the Catalan city the most is not just the interest from the red-and-whites, but that Hansi Flick, the blaugrana coach, has reportedly given the green light to the deal.
Hansi Flick | @FCBarcelona
An operation that could solve the club's financial problems
Amid the financial emergencies shaking the club, any move that would bring in significant revenue is scrutinized by the board. Joan Laporta urgently needs liquidity to comply with LaLiga's 1:1 rule. An operation of this magnitude would considerably ease the financial situation.
It's not just about money: it would also allow Barça to free up wage bill space. This would unlock the signings Flick has been demanding for weeks. Meanwhile, in Madrid, they are moving decisively.
Atleti is not just looking to make a splash in the market. It wants to strengthen itself with a competitive, young profile with elite experience. The proposal has already been conveyed to the player's camp.
Joan Laporta at a press conference | @jlaportaoficial
Flick gives the go-ahead: a pragmatic decision
In Barça's offices, they do not rule out that negotiations could progress in the coming days. While the sporting management values the economic impact positively, there is some confusion about Flick's stance. The German coach has communicated that he would not oppose the footballer's departure if the price is right.
He believes that his role is important, but not essential within the new system he is building for the 2025/26 season. During the last campaign, the player was not an undisputed starter. Flick is committed to a more collective squad, without dependence on names.
With those €80 million ($86.6 million), other urgent needs could be addressed: a natural winger, a physical midfielder, and another center-back. This is a pragmatic vision not everyone shares. But it is gaining traction due to the club's circumstances.
Simeone wants him | @simeone
A symbol of the academy who doesn't go unnoticed
The emotional impact, however, is the main concern. The footballer in question is not just anyone. He is a homegrown player, a symbol of a generation, and one of Barça's great recent emblems.
His commitment, character, and culé DNA have made him a fan and locker room favorite. His sale to Atlético would hurt twice as much. Not only because of the sporting loss, but also because it would strengthen a direct rival.
Few players stir as much feeling as he does. Letting him go could also have consequences among the fans. That's why, in Camp Nou's executive offices, they are thinking twice before taking the final step.
Deco | FC Barcelona
Laporta faces a decision that will shape the club's direction
The ball is now in Laporta's court. Atlético's offer is firm, Flick's stance is clear, and the club needs revenue. But the sporting project, the squad's identity, and the feelings of an entire fanbase are also at stake.
For now, the player's camp is keeping calm. His priority has always been to succeed at Barça. But if the club decides to sell, he will have to consider his future.
Everything suggests that there will be major developments in the coming days. While the board decides, Barcelona fans are holding their breath. The deal is on the table and the outcome seems imminent.
Gavi and Pedri | @FCBarcelona
Yes, Atlético de Madrid has offered €80 million ($86.6 million) for Pablo Páez Gavira, better known as Gavi. The Spanish international, one of the main figures of the new blaugrana generation, is at the center of a deal that could mark a turning point for Barça. Gavi's future, and Flick's project, could be defined in the coming hours.
