FC Barcelona continues planning its squad for next season, and it's doing so with a clear roadmap: youth, strategic signings, and trust in La Masia. Because of this measured approach, important opportunities have slipped away. One of them, offered for months to the culer team, has been seized by a direct rival in the fight for LaLiga: Atlético de Madrid.
At all times, Deco was clear that the priority was to strengthen the goal and the wings. In this regard, the midfield has been relegated to the background, opting for other more important additions. The sporting management has considered that the position is more than well covered, especially if we're talking about a midfielder who takes Fermín's place.
Atlético reacts, €50M ($54M) and takes him
After a few quiet days, Atlético has stepped on the gas to close a strategic and important signing. Enrique Cerezo has given the green light, to the point that the signing is done and ready to be announced. We're talking about Álex Baena, a Spanish international whose dream has always been to wear FC Barcelona's jersey.
In the end, Baena will leave Villarreal to join one of the top three teams in Spain. But he won't achieve his goal of playing as a blaugrana. In total, Atlético will make an investment of €45 million ($48.6M), which could increase if performance-based objectives are met, potentially raising the deal by another €5 million ($5.4M).
Álex Baena won't play at Camp Nou
Álex Baena continues to prove himself as one of the most talented midfielders in Spanish soccer. At 23 years old, Atlético's future player has completed a remarkable season in LaLiga, recording 7 goals and 10 assists in 33 matches. These numbers reflect his ability to directly influence the offensive play of the yellow team.
Baena has shown himself to be a modern midfielder, with vision, dribbling skills, and the ability to reach the opponent's box. His versatility allows him to play both inside and further forward, adapting to different tactical systems. This versatility has been key to his growth, making him a reference at Villarreal and a regular name in future conversations for the Spanish national team.
In a context where many big clubs are looking for midfielders with imbalance, intelligence, and tactical commitment, Álex Baena is an attractive option. His maturity on the field contrasts with his youth, and his development hasn't gone unnoticed in the offices of several top European teams.
With a valid contract and still plenty of room for improvement, Álex Baena has been one of the protagonists of the market. He has already left Villarreal and is heading to the colchonero squad.