In the offices of Camp Nou, they had been preparing a strategic signing for weeks. A young midfielder with potential and a competitive DNA. Joan Laporta and Deco were clear: reinforcing the midfield was key for the post-Xavi project.
The name didn't come to light immediately, but it was marked in red on the club's agenda. They wanted to close the deal before the summer.
Milan gets ahead and leaves Barça without options
AC Milan, after an irregular season in Serie A and with the Champions League as a lost goal, has decided not to wait any longer. The Lombard club wants to lead a revolution in its squad. For that, they have put a staggering figure on the table: 100 million euros.
A move that has left FC Barcelona offside. Without salary margin and with financial problems, Laporta couldn't match the proposal. At Can Barça, they have given up, the footballer has chosen: he's going to San Siro.
The jewel everyone wanted
The chosen one is Javi Guerra, a midfielder from Valencia CF. At 21 years old, he hasn't had an easy season, but he has managed to reinvent himself.
After a difficult start under Rubén Baraja's orders, the arrival of Carlos Corberán has restored his confidence. His recent performance against Real Madrid at Santiago Bernabéu made it clear that he is at his best.
He has played 31 matches, with 1 goal and 3 assists, but what stands out is his ability to organize and lead the midfield.
Barça had followed him closely. So had Atlético de Madrid, which was already close to signing him last summer. Even in Saudi Arabia, they made him a million-dollar offer, but the player only thought about growing in Europe.
Valencia had the control
With a contract until 2027 and a clause of 100 million euros, Valencia had all the cards. Its president knew that if someone wanted Guerra, they would have to pay the clause or get very close, and that's how it has been. Milan hasn't bargained, they have come determined.
The player's own father was clear weeks ago: "He is fine in Valencia, if he leaves, it will be because the club decides. Not because of him." But now, the decision is already made, the Che club couldn't resist such a powerful offer.