FC Barcelona continues to face economic difficulties that prevent it from strengthening its team as it would like. The priority remains to be able to register current players and find ways to maintain a competitive team without compromising the club's financial stability.
Joan Laporta has had to give up the possibility of signing a talent that would have fit perfectly into Hansi Flick's scheme. He is one of the most promising midfielders in Spanish football and a close friend of Fermín López, who regrets not being able to share a locker room with him at Barça.
A friendship born at the Olympic Games
Fermín López and he forged a great friendship during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Both led the Spanish team on their way to the gold medal, consolidating a relationship on and off the field.
Since then, Fermín dreamed of the possibility of playing alongside him at Barça. Their understanding on the field was almost natural, and their playing style fit perfectly with the blaugrana philosophy.
However, Barça's economic reality has been an obstacle. The club's financial situation doesn't allow for major investments, and the signing of Marcus Rashford remains the only operation considered viable to strengthen the attack.
Atlético de Madrid gets ahead of Barça
With Barcelona out of the race for Baena, Atlético de Madrid has seized the opportunity. The Colchonero club has reached an agreement to pay the 60 million release clause.
Diego Simeone has been key in the player's decision. The Argentine coach sees Baena as the natural heir to Griezmann, who could leave the team at the end of the season heading to MLS.
Atlético's management has worked quietly to close the signing. The offer to the player includes a six-season contract, with a salary much higher than what Barça could have offered him.
A player with history in Spanish football
Álex Baena, at just 23 years old, is already one of the great realities of LaLiga. He has been an essential piece at Villarreal, establishing himself as a midfielder with the ability to associate, reach the area, and lead on the field.
Additionally, his name became famous after an incident with Fede Valverde, when the Uruguayan punched him in Bernabéu parking lot. However, beyond that controversy, Baena has demonstrated his worth with outstanding performances in LaLiga and European competitions.
From Barça's management, some members have expressed their disappointment at not being able to compete for the signing. It was considered that Baena could have been a key reinforcement for Flick's team, but the lack of resources has prevented any serious attempt.
Additionally, Atlético could take the player sooner than expected. There is a possibility that Baena will play in the Club World Cup with the Colchonero team, taking advantage of the transfer window opened by FIFA.
Meanwhile, Fermín López is left wanting to play alongside his friend at Barça. Now, instead of sharing a locker room, he will see him as a rival in LaLiga.
What does Barça lose?
A midfielder with great vision and creativity.
A player with experience in LaLiga and international tournaments.
An ideal reinforcement for the midfield, which could have been key in Flick's project.
Álex Baena's signing by Atlético de Madrid is another blow for Barça in this transfer market. Although Fermín López and other players dreamed of seeing him dressed in blaugrana, the club's economic reality has made it impossible.
Now, Atlético strengthens with one of the best talents in Spanish football, while Barça continues to seek solutions to remain competitive.