The last few days have brought a real storm of rumors at Camp Nou, and not exactly from within the club.
The possibility that Atlético de Madrid will put €80 million ($86.6 million) on the table for a key Barça player is sounding strong. What's even more surprising is that Hansi Flick would have given the green light to the deal.
With the technical department's work in full swing, signings and departures are on the table. Atleti, always active in the market, would have decided to make a move and negotiations could speed up in the coming days.
That happens when Laporta is desperate to obtain income from transfers to place Barça within the 1:1 rule.
A strategic move
Barça isn't closed to negotiations. If the offer is strong enough—€80 million ($86.6 million) is an unexpected figure—and Flick believes there's a replacement or alternative project, the deal makes sense.
The move would also free up wage bill space and allow other arrivals to be accelerated: a striker, a holding midfielder, or a winger. These are decisions that, until now, have been on hold due to economic and sporting uncertainty.
€80 million ($86.6 million) that convince Flick
This time, it's not about a striker or a dispensable player. What's at stake is much more than a market operation. Atlético de Madrid has put €80 million ($86.6 million) on the table for Gavi, one of FC Barcelona's most beloved footballers.
The Colchonero club has shown firm, direct, and determined interest. Gavi is a player with character, a competitive DNA, and experience despite his youth.
There aren't many like him in the market, and Atlético knows it. That's why they've decided to make an unprecedented financial effort to try to dress him in red and white.
Flick gives the green light if the price is agreed
What has set off all the alarms at Camp Nou is that Hansi Flick wouldn't oppose the departure. The German coach believes Gavi is an important asset, but not irreplaceable if the club needs liquidity to face other signings. In fact, he wasn't a starter last season.
The blaugrana board is surprised by the coach's stance, but they also value positively that Flick is clear and pragmatic: he prefers to strengthen the team rather than focus on individuals. In this sense, if with that sale they can sign a winger, a physical midfielder, and a center-back, Gavi's sacrifice can be considered a strategic decision.
Gavi, symbol of the academy and of Barcelona identity
The emotional impact would be enormous. Gavi represents more than a player for the fans. His commitment, his grit, his character on the field, have made many see him as the spiritual heir to Xavi or Iniesta.
That's why a possible move to Atlético de Madrid, a direct rival in La Liga, would be especially painful for many Culers.
In Gavi's circle, however, there's no confirmation that the player wants to leave. Everything depends on Barça. If the club believes it needs to cash in and accepts the proposal, the player will have to consider his future, although his priority has always been to succeed at Camp Nou.
The future, in Laporta's hands
At this moment, the ball is in Laporta's court. Atlético's offer is real, significant, and tempting. Flick won't cause problems and the club needs income.
But the sporting project and the squad's identity are also at stake. Is it time to sell Gavi? Or is it a red line that should never be crossed?
In the coming days, Barça will have to make a decision that could set the course for its season... and its future.
The goal is to enter the 1:1 rule and Gavi could make it possible without intending to.