Xavi's time on the bench left more than just memories: it also left strategic recommendations for key signings. Beyond the results, his tenure helped consolidate young talents like Pau Cubarsí and Lamine Yamal. He also approved veteran arrivals such as Iñigo Martínez to support the team during critical moments.
Although his cycle ended earlier than expected, Xavi managed to adapt to the club's delicate economic and institutional situation. His balanced approach between youth and experience allowed the club to keep a certain level of stability in the midst of the storm. He also left key reports on players with a future, which are now being revisited.
One of those names suggested by the Egarense coach has returned to the new coach's list of priorities. Since his arrival, Hansi Flick has prioritized strengthening the tactical identity without giving up on the youth academy. He also wants to make an immediate competitive leap through strategic signings with a Barça profile.
Flick reorganizes the plan with ambition
Flick has already reactivated the work routines at Ciutat Esportiva, where a more demanding atmosphere can be felt. The new German coach hasn't wasted any time in setting priorities and demanding two key additions. One is already finalized: goalkeeper Joan García, who's coming in to cover Ter Stegen's generational replacement.
Flick's other request is a winger to alternate with Raphinha and Lamine Yamal in key matches. After Nico Williams's refusal, a new path opened up to bring in young, offensive talent with culé DNA. That's where a figure who was already on Barça's radar with Xavi appears.
The coaching staff have retrieved reports from the past, and one of them has once again caught the club's attention. It's an striker with experience in Europe, trained at La Masia, and willing to return. The goal is for him to arrive in this very transfer window, if the right economic conditions are met.
Nico Williams closes one door, but another opens
The disappointment with Nico Williams was total, especially due to his salary demands and his sudden change of direction. Barça no longer considers him a future option, not even if he decides to leave Athletic in the coming years. Deco has closed that chapter and is exploring new, more financially viable options.
In this context, an option with a Barça past and a well-established international projection has resurfaced. The player in question has expressed his desire to change teams this summer and return to the place where he grew up. His departure would be viable with a well-structured deal that doesn't break financial "fair play".
This isn't a simple loan, but a mixed formula that would include a mandatory purchase option. Negotiations with his parent club won't be easy, but channels are already open and there's a shared willingness. There's optimism at Barça because the player clearly prioritizes returning to Camp Nou.
A return that excites the fans
His name doesn't generate rejection: on the contrary, he's seen as a prodigal son who deserves a second chance. Unlike other cases, his departure wasn't controversial, but rather part of a sporting growth project. Now, with more maturity, he wants to redeem himself where it all began: Barcelona.
The transfer fee would be around €35 million (35 millones) fixed plus add-ons, with a salary below €6 million (6 millones) net. This is a lower figure than what Nico Williams was asking for, and with greater room for improvement. Flick considers him useful for several positions: left winger, attacking midfielder, or even offensive interior.
His versatility allows him to fit into various phases of play, something the German coach especially values. In addition, his technical profile matches Barça's style: vision, quick dribbling, intelligent off-the-ball movement, and the ability to link up with teammates. In short, he's the type of footballer who makes his teammates better.
A strategic signing, not just an emotional one
If completed, the deal would strengthen the team not only in footballing terms but also symbolically. It would mean bringing back a La Masia prospect who has shined elsewhere and is returning at his best. His arrival would be celebrated both in the locker room and by a fanbase eager for homegrown role models.
Deco and Laporta are aware and have already received Flick's final technical report endorsing the deal. Although there's no official offer yet, the player has already communicated his full willingness to negotiate with Barça. If the conditions don't change, he could be one of the first announcements this month.
PSG, the current holder of his rights, wouldn't oppose the move if the economic requirements are met. The relationship between the two clubs is good, which makes it easier to reach an agreement without tensions. The player's desire could speed up the process and reduce the final demands.
Yes, the protagonist of this move is none other than Xavi Simons. The youth product who left Barça in 2019 and now dreams of coming home.