Barcelona are edging closer to finalizing the permanent departure of Ansu Fati, with AS Monaco growing increasingly confident about securing the Spanish forward beyond this season. The Ligue 1 side is prepared to trigger the €11 million purchase option included in his current loan deal—a move that would provide Barcelona with a valuable financial boost ahead of the summer transfer window.

Monaco have been impressed by Ansu’s performances during his time in France, and there’s a belief within the club that his market value could rise well beyond the agreed fee. That confidence is driving their willingness to push the deal over the line. Barcelona, meanwhile, are planning for the long term. Reports from Mundo Deportivo indicate the Catalan club has already secured a buy-back clause worth just over €25 million, while negotiations on a sell-on percentage are progressing positively.

But before the ink dries on this €11 million move, one major hurdle remains: Ansu Fati’s salary. When he renewed his contract with Barcelona through 2028, the forward agreed to defer part of his wages. However, his current salary package still sits well above Monaco’s financial structure and the general wage levels in French football. This season, Monaco have covered only a portion of his wages, with Barcelona absorbing the rest.

The final stage of negotiations is now focused squarely on finding a reduced salary that fits Monaco’s financial reality. Reports from France suggest discussions are moving in a positive direction, but until this wage puzzle is solved, the transfer remains just short of the finish line. For Ansu Fati, a fresh start in Ligue 1 is tantalizingly close—but the last step is often the hardest.