In Barcelona's offices, they continue analyzing options to strengthen the squad for next season. Although the current priority is to finalize the signing of a left winger after making Joan García's arrival as goalkeeper official, the sporting management isn't neglecting other key positions. One of these is right back, where Hansi Flick has emphasized the need to add a more offensive profile to expand tactical options.
During the last campaign, Jules Koundé was the undisputed starter on that side, accumulating a heavy workload and performing excellently despite it not being his natural position. Eric García also performed well when needed, but like Koundé, he's a converted center back. For this reason, the coaching staff are looking for an alternative that, without displacing the current players, can offer different resources in offensive contexts, especially against opponents who sit deep in defense.
The full-back in question was on the radar of half of Europe, including Bayern Munich and PSG. However, the player has ultimately chosen Barça.
Deco sets the ideal replacement for Koundé
According to the Brazilian outlet UOL, Deco has once again put Vanderson's name, the young AS Monaco full-back, on the table. This is a profile that was already on Barcelona's radar when the Portuguese took over as sporting director, but it didn't materialize then due to the club's financial restrictions. Now, with a bit more leeway and after several planned sales, Barça is willing to reactivate that operation.
At 23 years old, Vanderson already has experience at the European elite after joining Monaco in 2021 from Gremio. His starting price is around €35 million (about $37.8 million), although Barça will try to lower that figure or find an affordable payment formula. But the competition will be tough: clubs like Tottenham have also shown interest.
A profile that fits Flick
Vanderson perfectly represents the prototype of a Brazilian full-back: explosive, vertical, and with a strong offensive presence. He stands out for his runs from the second line, his ability to beat opponents while carrying the ball, and his attitude. In a system like Flick's, where full-backs must provide width and create overloads, he would fit perfectly.
Barça doesn't intend for his arrival to mean the departure of Koundé or Eric Garcia. The goal is to have a more natural option for matches that require greater depth or offensive alternatives from the flank. In this scenario, Vanderson could become an important rotation piece, with room for growth and real possibilities of establishing himself in the medium term in the Barça project.