The war between Barça and Atleti has crossed a new line. It's no longer just about sports, the Champions League semifinals, or the titles at stake. Now, they're also competing in the offices, where every decision can change the course of a season.
The Madrid club has made a bold move, taking advantage of FC Barcelona's slowness on an open front. In this transfer window, the Barça sporting management has explored several options to strengthen its defense. But when it came time to act quickly, someone else was faster.
The player chosen by Atlético was also a target for Deco and Hansi Flick. Both had given the green light to start talks. But the outcome has been unexpected and painful for the blaugranas: the player has chosen Simeone.
Simeone takes the lead in a highly desired signing
The Argentine coach is very clear about his needs and has communicated them precisely. He needs speed on the wing, tactical intelligence, and players adapted to LaLiga. The new signing fits that profile, which has even surprised the blaugrana coaching staff.
At Camp Nou, they knew that name had been on the table for weeks. However, they trusted they could buy time with a more attractive sporting offer. That hasn't been the case, and the player has accepted the Colchonero proposal without hesitation.
The footballer's camp acknowledges that Barça's interest was real, but not concrete. Atlético acted decisively and presented a convincing financial proposal. The speed in closing the deal has made the difference in this case.
A move that leaves Barça exposed
Barça's major problem at right back remains unsolved. Jules Koundé has performed reliably, but he's not a natural specialist in the position. Héctor Fort, despite his potential, still doesn't convince as a starter in high-stakes matches.
That's why the blaugrana sporting management has been searching for weeks for a young profile with experience in the First Division. The characteristics of the player chosen by Atleti were perfect: physical power, range, and great defensive awareness. In addition, he could arrive at a very affordable price.
Atlético's offer, which includes variables and performance-based incentives, has been decisive. Meanwhile, Barça hasn't even submitted a formal proposal. There's discontent in the Barça camp over how this key operation for Flick has been lost.
Atlético closes a masterstroke: contract until 2030
The transfer has been closed for 20 million euros, a figure that fits into Simeone's plan. In addition, the player's contract includes a high release clause to avoid surprises in the medium term. He signs until 2030 with the idea of establishing himself as a starter from day one.
At Barça, on the other hand, they've had to accept defeat and look for alternatives. Neither Denzel Dumfries nor the current academy players offer the necessary reliability in the short term. The technical department is working against the clock to prevent the same thing from happening again with another target.
Finally, the name of the protagonist of this operation that has shaken the market has been revealed. It's Marc Pubill, a 21-year-old Spanish right back, until now at Almería. Simeone has brought him in, and Barça is once again left waiting.