Barcelona star Ansu Fati linked with move to surprise LaLiga club in January: Reports

Barcelona left-winger Ansu Fati has been linked with a move to Real Betis Balompié in the ongoing January transfer window. The La Masia graduate started his senior career at the Catalan club in 2019 and his current contract runs until the summer of 2027.

Fati's journey with La Blaugrana started off well, with many hailing him as the next great player out of the club's academy. However, the Spaniard missed the majority of the 2020-21 season after sustaining a meniscus tear.

In 2024, Ansu Fati suffered a foot injury in July, missing five games at the beginning of the ongoing season for Barcelona. He then picked up a muscle injury in November and was sidelined for six more matches.

According to a recent report from SPORT, Real Betis are interested in acquiring Fati's signature for a loan deal in January for the next six months. Los Verdiblancos are reportedly optimistic about the offer, with the final say depending on the winger's decision about his future before the ongoing transfer window closes.

Ansu Fati's potential loan transfer to Real Betis from Barcelona might benefit all parties involved. It can give a fresh start to the player while helping with La Blaugrana's financial constraints, especially in their efforts to comply with LaLiga’s 1:1 cap rule.

Fati has started in only one of the eight appearances he has made for Barca this season while making no goal contributions. He has been on a one-season loan before to Brighton & Hove Albion in 2023–2024, where he recorded four goals and one assist in 27 appearances.

While Ansu Fati has reportedly received offers from other LaLiga clubs besides Real Betis, it remains to be seen if and then where he decides to move.

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Hansi Flick shares his thoughts on Barcelona's recent form

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick shared his thoughts on his squad's recent form. The German manager took charge of the Blaugrana squad in May 2024 after former coach and club legend Xavi was relieved of his duties.

The Catalan club significantly improved in their performances under Hansi Flick this season, winning 18 out of 26 matches across competitions so far. However, the squad's results in LaLiga deteriorated in the last months of 2024, with three losses and one draw in their last five league games.

While speaking in a press conference before Barcelona's 4-0 Copa del Rey win against Barbastro on January 4, Flick addressed his current situation with the squad and said (via @FabrizioRomano on X):

"My view has not changed. I am in love with this club and this city. The mentality in the squad is very good. There is a very good atmosphere. We love working here."

Barcelona are currently third in the LaLiga table with 38 points in 19 matches. La Blaugrana are also second in the UEFA Champions League table with 15 points in six games.

While Barcelona have bagged a victory in their first match of the year, it remains to be seen if they can keep their momentum going in their upcoming clash against Athletic Club in the semi-finals of Supercopa de España on January 8.