While Diego Simeone was considering him as the cornerstone for his new attack, Barça have reacted quietly. Joan Laporta and Deco have pulled the strings with intelligence and determination. The blaugrana club is clear that it needs to strengthen its forward line with immediate projection and proven performance.
After weeks of discreet meetings and contacts kept out of the media spotlight, the strategy is starting to bear fruit. Barcelona has positioned itself as the best placed to secure a gem of European soccer. If the deal goes through, it would mean a reinforcement for both the present and the future for Hansi Flick.

A gem that awakens passions in Europe
The player in question is Benjamin Šeško, current striker for RB Leipzig and one of the most sought-after in the continent. At 20 years old, he has shown an explosive combination of physical power, tactical intelligence, and scoring maturity. In the Bundesliga, he has posted remarkable numbers, leaving his mark in key matches.
His ability to play with his back to goal, win aerial duels, and read spaces makes him a modern striker. At Barça, they value his profile, especially for how he would fit into Flick's system. In addition, they see him as a strategic investment that could consolidate over several seasons.
His signing would not only be a short-term solution, but also a valuable institutional bet. Hansi Flick is looking for dynamism and versatility in attack, and Šeško meets both requirements. His off-the-ball movement and associative play strengthen his candidacy.
Atlético de Madrid at a disadvantage despite Cholo's interest
In Madrid, Atlético also knew that Benjamin Šeško could be the striker to renew its offensive line. Diego Simeone had approved his arrival and negotiations had advanced. The rojiblanco club was offering minutes, prominence, and trust within a new ambitious project.
However, while at the Metropolitano they were still working on their proposal, Barça acted more efficiently. The blaugrana sporting management knew how to handle the timing and approach the player's camp quietly. Although there is no definitive agreement, Barça's advantage is consolidating.
The striker's camp values the blaugrana sporting project very positively. Flick's presence, along with the opportunity to share a locker room with talents like Pedri or Lamine Yamal, have been decisive. The competitive environment and Barça's offensive style also play in its favor.
A high release clause, but an affordable investment
Šeško's release clause amounts to €80 million, a high figure but not unaffordable. At Camp Nou, they are convinced that they can meet that amount if they manage to close some important sales. The idea is to free up the wage bill and obtain liquidity without compromising financial balance.
Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester United have also shown interest in the Slovenian. However, none have submitted a formal offer, which gives Barça room to maneuver. In addition, the player's contact with footballers like Dani Olmo has favored a key approach.
For Simeone, if the signing is confirmed, it will be a missed opportunity of great offensive weight. For Barça, it would be an addition that brings youth, projection, and a different scoring profile. In an attack where mobility is prioritized, Šeško could stand out as a fixed and versatile reference.
Deco is already working to close the deal as soon as possible and prevent another club from getting ahead. Flick wants to have the entire squad during preseason, which includes having his new number nine. Benjamin Šeško, if nothing goes wrong, will be one of the blaugrana's biggest bets of the summer.
With this move, Barça shows that it remains an attractive club for emerging talents. The sporting management doesn't improvise: it builds with a medium-term vision. If everything goes as planned, Šeško will be the new face of Camp Nou very soon.