Ligue 1 club reach agreement in principle to retain Barcelona forward in €11m deal

Ansu Fati’s long association with Barcelona appears to be approaching its final chapter, with the forward now closing in on a permanent move to Monaco.

After spending last season on loan in the French Principality, the academy graduate had continued to hope there would be a route back into Hansi Flick’s plans for the upcoming campaign. 

However, recent developments in Barcelona’s transfer strategy have seemingly changed the picture completely.

According to Gialuigi Longari, negotiations involving Monaco and Jorge Mendes have advanced significantly in recent days, and an agreement is now believed to be within touching distance.

If the operation is completed, Barcelona are expected to receive around €11 million from the French club.

Monaco move advances

Ansu ended his loan spell in encouraging fashion, finishing the season in good physical condition and making a positive impact on the pitch.

The attacker contributed nine goals across 25 appearances and played an important role in helping Monaco secure qualification for European competition. 

His performances convinced the French side that he could remain an important part of their project despite Sevilla’s reported interest.

Despite that success, the player remained hopeful of receiving another opportunity at Barcelona.

The winger believed his form and fitness improvements could earn him a place in Flick’s squad, particularly as a rotational option in attack. 

Barcelona wanted an exit route

However, Barcelona’s recent transfer activity appears to have changed the situation.

The arrival of Anthony Gordon has significantly increased competition in the attacking department, and the player has come to the conclusion that opportunities at Camp Nou will be extremely limited moving forward.

As a result, a permanent stay at Monaco now looks increasingly likely.

The French club have already indicated their satisfaction with his performances and have spent months exploring a deal that would allow him to continue his development in Ligue 1.