Íñigo Martínez's departure to Saudi Arabia has left a significant gap in Barça's defense. Although Eric García, Pau Cubarsí, Ronald Araújo, and Andreas Christensen remain on the roster, Flick believes it's not enough to face such a demanding season. With four center-backs for two positions, any injury or suspension could complicate the German coach's plan.
Flick especially values the importance of having different profiles in the back line, and Íñigo's exit has meant the loss of a left-footed center-back. For this reason, he doesn't rule out the need to bring in a reinforcement who can provide depth and guarantee solidity in a packed schedule.
A complicated effort due to fair play
The German coach hasn't hidden that he'd like the club to make an effort to fill that vacancy. However, financial limitations define the reality. Fair play continues to condition moves, and before considering new signings, the priority is to register the two signings already completed this summer.
This situation makes any immediate operation complicated. The board is aware of Flick's stated need, but they also know they can't compromise the salary cap. For now, the strategy seems to be to hold out until winter before making a final decision.
Schlotterbeck, the alternative for January
In this regard, El Nacional points to the signing of Nico Schlotterbeck, a German center-back from Borussia Dortmund. The idea would be to try to bring him in during the winter transfer window, so he can join the team in the final stretch of the season.
Schlotterbeck, a German international, is a left-footed defender with great size (6 ft. 3 in.[1.91 m]), strong in the air, and good at playing out from the back. His arrival would bring competition and allow the coach to handle rotations more calmly, especially in high-stakes matches.
A signing with financial margin
The center-back has a contract with Dortmund until 2027, which means that in January he'll have a year and a half left. This situation could make negotiations easier at a lower price than in other circumstances, especially if the player is open to a change of scenery.
In addition, the reduced cost compared to other top-level defenders would fit better within Barça's financial restrictions. It would be a bet on a young but already proven player, capable of delivering immediate performance. The ball is now in the board's court, and they must decide whether to hold out with what they have or give Hansi Flick the reinforcement he is asking for.