Why Ansu Fati’s move to AS Monaco is still facing unexpected delays | OneFootball

According to a report from Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona and AS Monaco have reopened negotiations over the future of Ansu Fati, with both sides now aiming to resolve the final and most significant hurdle, which is to share the forward’s hefty salary.

It is to be noted that talks had previously stalled after Barcelona requested Monaco cover 80% of Fati’s wages, while the Ligue 1 side only agreed to pay 30%.

Now, with pressure mounting to find a solution quickly, both clubs are reportedly softening their stances. Those close to the player believe the coming week will be decisive, with Ansu due back from holiday to determine his next move.

Barcelona had originally wanted to sell Ansu outright, but are now willing to consider a one-year loan with a purchase option.

While the Catalan club pushed for a mandatory buyout clause, Monaco prefer a non-obligatory option, an idea that Barça are gradually warming up to. The fee discussed is close to €15 million, although no final figure has been agreed.

Salary issue remains unresolved

Ansu Fati’s transfer has made progress. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Despite progress on the structure of the deal, the salary issue remains unresolved. Monaco are now prepared to increase their contribution to around 40% of his wages, but this would leave Barcelona covering the remaining 60%, which they’re reluctant to do.

Barça’s financial situation makes offloading Ansu’s salary a priority, and they remain hopeful Monaco will meet them somewhere in the middle. However, if the French club want the 22-year-old attacker, they will need to step up their financial commitment.

Time is of the essence. For Ansu to benefit from Monaco’s favourable tax regulations, he must establish residency by being present in the country for at least 183 days within the calendar year.

That means he needs to be in Monaco by the end of June to meet the requirement, further accelerating the urgency for a resolution.

Ansu, once tipped as the heir to Lionel Messi at Camp Nou, now finds himself at a crossroads. Injuries and inconsistency have derailed his trajectory, and Barcelona no longer see him as a central part of their plans.