FC Barcelona has started to make firm decisions ahead of the summer transfer window. Unlike previous seasons, Laporta and Deco aren't willing to negotiate with just anyone, especially not with a club like Paris Saint-Germain, with whom they have a tense relationship. Cases like Neymar and Dembélé are still fresh in the minds of the blaugrana board, who have now decided to shield their young talents from PSG's interest.
In this regard, Barça has defined a clear stance: some players simply aren't for sale. If a club wants to sign them, they'll have to pay the full amount of their release clause. This is a defensive sports strategy, but also a political one, especially when the offeror is the Parisian club.
luis enrique's PSG steps up
Under this premise, Barça has already started to reject moves for several young players, with one of the most recent and high-profile cases being Fermín López. According to sources close to the club, PSG has made an initial offer of €40 million (40 millones) fixed plus €10 million (10 millones) in add-ons to sign one of the current jewels of La Masia. The interest has been direct, backed by Luis Enrique himself, who sees the Andalusian as an ideal profile to strengthen the midfield of the French league champion.
However, Joan Laporta's response has been clear: Fermín isn't for sale, and he won't negotiate with PSG or any club for less than the release clause. At Camp Nou, they believe that, despite not having had consistent playing time under Hansi Flick, Fermín has shown he's ready to establish himself in the first team. The problem, as often happens with young talents, is that his prominence depends on the new coaching staff, who haven't yet guaranteed him a key role in the squad.
laporta demands the release clause
Given this situation, Laporta has decided to get ahead of possible pressure and has drawn a red line: if anyone wants Fermín, they'll have to pay €500 million (500 millones). The president is aware of the footballer's potential and doesn't want to repeat past mistakes, where prospects like Ilaix Moriba or Xavi Simons ended up leaving without establishing themselves in the first team.
Moreover, the club doesn't trust PSG, with whom they keep a history of tension that prevents smooth relations. The sporting management has made it clear there will be no loans, no discounts, and no kind of deal. Fermín is a very important player, not only because of his performance, but also because of what he represents for the youth academy model that Barça wants to reaffirm in the coming years.