Atlético will pay €60M for two Barça stars
FC Barcelona is entering a crucial summer, both on the field and financially. With Hansi Flick now firmly in charge, the club knows it needs to restructure parts of the team. However, limited finances mean Barça must first focus on reducing its wage bill and making at least one significant sale before it can actively pursue new signings.
One of the most talked-about areas is the midfield. While the squad has no shortage of talent, it also has too many players for the limited spots available. This means the club must carefully consider any decisions to sell or sign players. Offers have reportedly come in for promising names like Fermín López and Dani Olmo, but Barcelona must tread carefully so as not to harm the development of its young talents or weaken the team.
Atlético Steps In, Barça Relieved
According to COPE, Atlético de Madrid is close to completing the signing of Álex Baena from Villarreal for €60 million. Baena had been on Barcelona’s radar in recent weeks, but the Catalan club ultimately pulled back due to the already crowded state of its midfield. His move to Atlético now brings quiet relief to Barça’s leadership.
Baena’s signing by Diego Simeone’s side means Barça no longer has to worry about adding a player who would have brought direct competition to Fermín López and Dani Olmo. With Atlético now focused on their new acquisition, Barcelona can shift its attention to strengthening internally. For Fermín and Olmo, this development clears the way for more playing time and less pressure as they look to establish themselves in the squad.
Less Competition, More Confidence
Fermín López was one of the brightest surprises last season, showing maturity and flair in key matches. Dani Olmo, meanwhile, has long been seen as a creative solution in midfield and attack, and he remains a top target for Barcelona’s long-term plans. Both players are highly valued by Hansi Flick, particularly for their versatility and ability to adapt to different roles.
The potential arrival of Baena would have complicated their futures, likely leading to more rotation and a possible decrease in playing time. But with the Villarreal midfielder heading to Madrid instead, Flick has more freedom to build around the pieces already in his hands.
A Strategic Shift
Flick favours a dynamic, fluid midfield with players who can move between lines and take on various responsibilities. By not bringing in another attacking midfielder like Baena, he can now focus on refining and rotating the talent already present in the squad. Players like Fermín and Olmo offer different but complementary qualities—Fermín brings energy and directness, while Olmo offers vision and technical skill.
In the current financial climate, Barça’s best strategy may not lie in the transfer market, but in optimising what they already have. Instead of spending on new players, the club is prioritising the development and integration of young and existing talent. Avoiding Baena’s signing fits that approach perfectly.
Moving Forward
While the summer transfer window still holds uncertainties for FC Barcelona, the decision to step away from the Álex Baena pursuit may prove to be a blessing in disguise. It allows the club to reduce unnecessary pressure on its midfielders and maintain a better balance within the squad.
Now, the focus can shift to other key objectives—finalising exits, trimming the wage bill, and potentially making a single impactful signing that aligns with both sporting and financial realities. In the meantime, Fermín López and Dani Olmo can look ahead to a season with clearer opportunities to shine under a coach who believes in their abilities.