Ansu Fati close to Monaco move as final tax detail pending

Barcelona forward Ansu Fati is on the brink of a permanent transfer to Ligue 1 side Monaco, with both parties having reached a full agreement except for a minor fiscal issue that is expected to be resolved early next week, allowing Barcelona to finalise the deal before the 30 June 2025/26 financial year deadline.

After a solid spell on loan at Monaco, the La Masia graduate had still hoped to return to his boyhood club. The arrival of Anthony Gordon at Barcelona convinced him that his prospects of playing under Hansi Flick would be limited, prompting the 23‑year‑old to pursue a permanent move to Monaco.

Monaco had already indicated its readiness to activate the €11 million release clause set by Barcelona. Subsequent talks centred on Ansu Fati’s salary and the length of his contract, with the French club seeking to significantly reduce the wages he earned in Spain.

Barcelona aimed to preserve some control over the forward’s future, exploring options such as a buy‑back clause or a percentage of any later sale. The Catalan club is set to receive the €11 million fee once the transfer is completed.

Agent Jorge Mendes played a decisive role in the latest round of negotiations, helping all parties iron out the remaining administrative points. His involvement ensured the agreement stayed on track toward completion. Before departing Barcelona, Ansu Fati signed an extension that runs until June 2028, agreeing to defer part of his wages. Monaco initially sought a five‑year contract lasting to 2031, but the player opted for a shorter deal. The final agreement is a four‑year contract that runs until 2030, when he will be 28. The accompanying image by Angel Martinez captures Fati during his time at Barcelona.

With only a tax‑related formalities pending, the transfer is expected to be finalised early next week. Once completed, Ansu Fati will join Monaco permanently, concluding the negotiations that began weeks ago.