Joan Laporta smiles. Barcelona is experiencing a golden moment, the best in a decade. And not only that, the feeling is that a beautiful era is beginning, with a clear project and a coach with a long track record. If you look closely, it is the opposite of what is happening at Atlético, mired in a crisis that could become profound.
While Laporta and Flick's Barça are winning, playing well and knowing where they want to go, Simeone's Atlético are suffering like never before. Some voices are already talking about the end of a cycle and, when this happens, the rumors gain weight. And the gossipmongers point out that the colchoneros want a Barça player.
Simeone asks about one of Laporta's players
Simeone's Atlético Madrid appear to be in pole position to sign Ferran Torres. The forward's situation at Barça is becoming increasingly complicated. The player hasn't managed to find his place in Xavi's system, and with the rise of figures such as Raphinha and Lamine Yamal, the options for Ferran are reduced. Although in the past they were strongly committed to transfer him, the Catalan club now see that the best option is to look for an exit in the market.
President Joan Laporta is clear that his project needs adjustments in attack. Ferran, a player who hasn't yet defined whether he is a winger or a center forward, doesn't fit into the long-term vision. In addition, Barça is still keeping an eye on the market to sign a young and quality center forward. This would further reduce the opportunities for the Valencian.
With Atlético Madrid in the equation, the operation seems viable. Simeone has expressed interest in the profile of Ferran Torres, who could be a great resource if Antoine Griezmann leaves the team. In addition, Miguel Ángel Gil Marín, Atlético's general manager, also sees Ferran as a player who could fit well into the Colchoneros squad.
Talks have already begun. Both Barça and Atlético are willing to explore the transfer in the next winter market. Laporta is willing to let Ferran go, but he takes into account one aspect: Ferran's good relationship with players like Pedri and Dani Olmo. This closeness influences the chemistry of the dressing room, an element that Laporta doesn't want to alter without good reasons.
However, the financial aspect also plays a crucial role. Ferran Torres is valued at around 30 million euros and has a contract until 2027. Barça hope to get at least 25 million. With this figure, Atlético could have access to a talented player with the potential to improve, ideal for Simeone's system.
Ferran's situation is under the scrutiny of other clubs, such as Arsenal and Aston Villa in the Premier League, as well as Juventus and Inter Milan in Serie A. However, Atlético's interest, added to the fluid relationship between both clubs, puts the colchoneros in a privileged position.
Ferran's fate could therefore be decided soon. Atlético de Madrid seems to be the team best placed to take advantage of this transfer window opportunity and strengthen its position with a player who fits into its game plan.