Barça keeps working to finalize the last moves of the transfer window and complete the squad that Hansi Flick will lead in his second season in charge of the culé bench. With the signings of Joan García and Ronny Bardghji already confirmed, as well as the uncertainty surrounding the winger's situation, the sporting management doesn't rule out new additions to strengthen sensitive positions.
In this regard, one of the main focuses is on the left back position. This is a position that has raised doubts at the club after Alejandro Balde's recurring injuries. The German coach considers it essential to reinforce that side to avoid being exposed during the season, but not everyone at the club shares his view.
Flick's bet to strengthen the flank
Flick is certain that Alejandro Grimaldo would be a strategic signing for Barça. The current Bayer Leverkusen player has just completed a couple of exceptional seasons in the Bundesliga, where he was key in Xabi Alonso's historic title. With experience on big stages and consistent performance, the German coach believes his arrival would immediately solve the lack of a reliable backup for Balde.
In addition, Grimaldo has a release clause close to €30 million (close to €30 million), an amount that, for Flick, matches the player's value and the urgency of the operation. The coach trusts that the footballer trained at La Masia would quickly adapt, and he is pleased that he wants to return.
The club halts the operation
However, in Barça's offices the idea doesn't generate consensus. Deco and Joan Laporta believe the priority should be to bet on young homegrown talents before going after an expensive signing. They think the club can manage the situation with internal solutions while Balde regains his best form.
There is also an extra factor: Grimaldo's history in his first spell as a culé. His departure to Benfica left a bitter taste due to certain discipline problems and a disagreement with Luis Enrique. This past still weighs on Deco's assessment, who still doesn't see the operation clearly despite the sporting guarantees it offers.