When Fabrizio Romano reports that a deal is done, it is definitely done. Fabrizio Romano has reported that AS Monaco will activate the 11m buy option for Ansu Fati. This deal is already completed but we await the official announcement.
We broke down this story last week with reports suggesting that Barcelona would not be welcoming Fati back and wanted to make his move to Monaco permanent. Today Fabrizio confirmed the move.
What changed Monaco's mind?
Earlier in the season the situation looked considerably different. L'Equipe reported that Monaco were unhappy with Fati's work ethic. Teammates were also reported to be unhappy and the option was under serious consideration to be voided.
However, things then began to change. Fati played in 28 games across all competitions and scored 11 goals with 10 in Ligue 1 in just 1,199 minutes. The forward averaged a goal every 109 minutes. After three years unable to String together even five straight games this represents a significant turnaround.
The coaching staff at Monaco as well as the sporting department feel his level is currently at a sufficient point for what they need. The 11m option is a relatively low risk signing for a player still so young and with potential.
What do Barcelona gain from this?
- 11m added straight into the transfer budget
- A sell on clause giving Barcelona a percentage of any future sale
- One of the highest salaries in the Barcelona dressing room off the books (estimated at 12m gross per season)
- Negotiations have accelerated with an agreement now close
This is a huge deal for Barcelona who need to raise money this summer to bring in key targets. The addition of 11m and removing such a huge salary is genuinely important.
The end of a difficult Journey
Ansu Fati was once viewed as the obvious heir to Lionel Messi's throne but injuries and a lack of rhythm meant that his career took a completely different path. He burst onto the scene for Barcelona aged just 16. Then came a string of injuries and the player expected to define Barcelona's next decade spent his prime years in the treatment room.
Monaco gave Fati what Barcelona couldn't at the time - guaranteed game time and a fresh start. He responded by scoring 11 goals. That is the end of his Barcelona chapter, and now it has officially been written.
At 23 and with a bright future ahead of him, Ansu Fati's story is far from over. It's just continuing somewhere else.
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