AS Monaco are set to enter negotiations with Barcelona to potentially lower the €11 million purchase option for Ansu Fati, according to reports in Spain. Fati has spent the current season on loan at the Ligue 1 club, following limited playing time under Hansi Flick at Barcelona.
Fati joined Barcelona from Sevilla as a youth player in 2012, progressing through La Masia to become a first-team regular. However, a serious knee injury in 2020 hampered his development, and he has struggled to consistently recapture his form since. Last season, he made a limited number of appearances for the Catalan side, largely behind Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha in the pecking order, prompting the loan move to Monaco.
Despite an injury-disrupted campaign in France, Fati has still managed 11 goals in 28 appearances for Monaco, averaging a goal every 109 minutes. Fabrizio Romano reports that Barcelona would retain a 20% sell-on clause should the deal become permanent. Fati’s contract at Barcelona currently runs until 2028, and his wages are among the highest at Camp Nou.
Marca reports that Monaco are hoping to reduce the €11 million fee, or potentially renegotiate Fati’s salary, before finalizing the transfer. Barcelona are reportedly keen to complete the sale before the end of June to improve their financial fair play position and alleviate pressure on their salary limit. MD journalist Gabriel Sans corroborates this, stating that Monaco’s decision hinges on securing more favorable terms. A compromise between the player and Barcelona regarding a wage adjustment is also a possibility. This move would represent a permanent departure for Fati after 14 years with the club, and allow Barcelona to free up funds and squad space as they continue their rebuild.
