Atlético de Madrid had set its sights on a young talent who promises to define an era in Spanish soccer. The rojiblanco sporting management believed his arrival would be a game-changer in the market and a reinforcement for both the present and the future. Negotiations had started optimistically, but everything changed when the numbers began to hover over the deal.
There was a willingness at Metropolitano to close the deal; however, the selling club's financial demands blew up any chance of understanding. The amount demanded from Camp Nou was much higher than what the colchonero club was willing to put forward. The gap between what one side asked for and what the other offered was insurmountable.
Joan Laporta didn't hesitate to set a very high price, convinced that the player in question is a strategic piece for the present and future of the blaugrana squad. Atlético, meanwhile, saw things differently: the demanded figure didn't match the salary cap or the reality of the market. The signing was put on hold.
Barça doesn't give in to Cholo
The deal, which seemed on track in its early stages, suddenly fell apart. Within the Madrid club, there were guarantees of playing time and prominence for the footballer. But the financial barrier became an impossible wall to break down, and both sides' desire to reach an agreement ran into financial logic.
In the middle of the negotiation, the player himself also played an important role. Although he knew firsthand the conditions Atlético offered him, his priority was always clear. He wanted to keep wearing the blaugrana jersey and show he has a place in the coach's plans.
Simeone can't beat Laporta
This is Fermín López, the homegrown culé who has no intention of leaving, unless the club itself opens the door for him. In that scenario, the conditions would have to change radically. On one hand, Barça would have to lower its demands; on the other, Atlético would have to stretch further in its offer.
The footballer's stance is firm: he wants to succeed as an blaugrana. He's not afraid of internal competition and believes his development depends on establishing himself at Camp Nou. The rojiblanco camp understands the decision, although they regret that the numbers have stopped a deal that could've benefited both sides.
Meanwhile, Laporta still refuses to lower the bar. The €50 million ($54 million) remain marked in red as the minimum value to start negotiations. This is an amount Atlético, at least for now, doesn't plan to reach, so the story of this failed signing is on hold. The future will tell whether the sides get closer or if it all ends as a missed opportunity, but for now, the colchonero jersey will have to wait.