Summer has become complicated for Joan Laporta. What was supposed to be a strategic signing has vanished due to institutional slowness and lack of liquidity. While Barça was crunching numbers, another major Spanish club had already sealed the deal.
From the very beginning, there was consensus in the Camp Nou offices. The objective was clear: a young, offensive footballer with elite experience and the ability to break the balance in the final third. All signs pointed to an ambitious operation, but within the parameters set by the club's economic reality.
Joan Laporta | @FCBarcelona_es
Laporta had his choice clear
Joan Laporta had mapped out a roadmap with Deco and Flick, and the player fit perfectly with the needs of the new Barça. A talent with immediate impact and room to grow. They considered activating his release clause, set at €60 million, a high amount but manageable if previous sales were finalized.
But time waits for no one. This time, while Barça was caught up in meetings and financial debates, a direct rival seized the opportunity.
Hansi Flick | @FCBarcelona
Atlético de Madrid, led by Diego Simeone, acted decisively. The Argentine coach had been watching the player for months and, when he learned that Villarreal was open to a departure, he didn't wait any longer. In a matter of days, the colchonero club activated the necessary mechanisms to finalize the signing.
Atleti's proposal not only matches the €60 million clause but also adds performance-based variables that have convinced all parties. Meanwhile, the player has given his approval without hesitation, attracted by the sporting project and the trust that Simeone inspires in him.
Simeone wants him | @simeone
A profile with Barça DNA
The footballer was one of Flick's greatest desires; he considered him essential to renewing the team's attacking front. His ability to play inside, break lines, and link up with the wingers made him an ideal reinforcement. Within the club, there was even talk that he could follow in the footsteps of Pedri or Gavi, becoming a key player from the moment he arrived.
Moreover, his emotional connection with Barça was clear. In several interviews, he had acknowledged his admiration for the blaugrana team. His playing style, technical training, and vision were very much to the liking of the culé faithful.
Hansi Flick | @FCBarcelona
Laporta had tried to convince him with an attractive project. Deco had even initiated formal contacts and had brought positions closer with his entourage. But the lack of agility and the inability to guarantee his immediate registration ended up being decisive.
While Barça was talking about pending sales and salary adjustments, Atlético was offering certainty. In soccer, when everything is at stake, those certainties weigh more than dreams.
In the end, the protagonist of this story is Álex Baena. The talented Villarreal midfielder, top assist provider in the major leagues this season, has decided to accept the offer from Atlético de Madrid. Barça had him at the top of their list, but they didn't make it in time.
Simeone is taking the player of the moment for €60 million. Meanwhile, in Barcelona, Flick loses his favorite even before having him. Laporta will have to redo his list of signings, knowing that, once again, the lack of reaction has taken its toll.
