The transfer market is ongoing, but not every move ends in a happy ending. In this case, Atlético de Madrid has had to abruptly halt a deal that excited much of its fanbase.
At Camp Nou, they're not willing to sell key pieces at a loss. Even less so in a season when the club is returning to its stadium and looking to compete for everything again.
The message coming from Joan Laporta's offices has been as clear as it is forceful: the star is not for sale. Not for €50 million nor for €60 million.
If anyone wants to take one of the pillars of the project, they'll have to pay much more... or look elsewhere.
Simeone's chosen one... stays at Camp Nou
Atlético was looking for a statement signing to strengthen its squad and make a qualitative leap. With several attacking players leaving and doubts about others, the colchonero club considered a signing that, by profile, would fit perfectly into Simeone's system.
Fast, with dribbling skills, a goal threat, and able to make a difference in the final third.
But Laporta is not willing to strengthen a direct rival. Even less so if the offer is below the player's market value.
MB has learned from sources close to the board that the figure Atlético is targeting is Fermín and that he won't leave for less than €80 million. This is an amount that Enrique Cerezo and Gil Marín consider unaffordable in the current economic context.
Barça also has sporting reasons to keep him. The player is favored by Hansi Flick and is expected to be important this season. His commitment, constant progress, and identification with the project are highly valued.
Only an irresistible offer would have changed things. Atlético's was not.
Laporta sends an internal and external message
This decision is not just an economic matter. It's also a statement of intent.
Laporta wants to make it clear that Barça is not a supermarket. The club has gone through difficult times, but it's no longer in a position where it has to accept any offer.
Rejecting €50 million for one of its stars sends a message of security and authority. Inside the locker room, it's seen as a sign of trust in the current group. Externally, it's a warning: Barça is back, and with it, the highest demands in every negotiation.
Atlético will have to look for alternatives. Meanwhile, Barça celebrates a silent victory: keeping talent is the first step toward titles.