Hansi Flick is absolutely certain: the squad needs one last reinforcement in defense before the transfer window closes. Iñigo Martínez's unexpected departure to Saudi Arabia has left a gap that's difficult to fill. The German coach has communicated to Deco his desire to have a new center-back before the official start of the season.
The problem lies in the club's delicate financial situation, which continues to shape every sporting decision made by the board. The registrations of Joan García and Marcus Rashford haven't been finalized yet, and that creates added pressure. Even Roony Bardghji, a signing for the future, doesn't address the immediate needs Flick has put forward.
Deco, forced to move quickly
Deco, the blaugrana football director, understands the coach's requests and agrees that the backline needs reinforcements. His plan is to find a young profile, with room to grow, who can establish himself in the future. They're not looking for an established star, but rather a reasonable investment that fits within the current financial limitations.
The internal message is very clear: sign a player who's "good, attractive, and cheap," preferably under 23 years old. The goal is for him to begin his adaptation with Barça Atlètic and develop into a first-team player. It's a strategic bet that would allow the defense to be reinforced without compromising the institution's financial stability.
The roadmap designed by Deco isn't easy to execute, but he has a top priority name on the table. In recent hours, it's been leaked that Barcelona have already contacted another Spanish club. It would be a lightning-fast operation, with the intention of closing it before the end of the transfer window.
A direct option from the Metropolitano
Reports indicate that the club has entered into talks with Atlético de Madrid to negotiate a transfer. It's not one of its most recognizable media stars, but it is a promising talent. The profile matches exactly what Flick and Deco have outlined as the ideal reinforcement for the defense.
The footballer in question is young, with international experience in youth categories, and still without much professional experience. However, his physical qualities, defensive aggressiveness, and good ball distribution have convinced the blaugrana scouts. He's seen as a bet for the future with immediate potential to compete.
From Camp Nou, there's full confidence that this signing can have a very positive impact in the medium term. The idea is for the player to integrate quickly, take advantage of rotations, and give the starters some rest. In that process, Flick would have more tactical options and greater peace of mind to plan the season.
Internal competition and support for the academy
Meanwhile, Hansi Flick keeps full confidence in the current center-backs in the squad, who'll have a lot of prominence. Pau Cubarsí is set to be an undisputed starter and Ronald Araújo is the great defensive leader in the locker room. In addition, Christensen and Éric García will continue competing for minutes in the rotation.
Jules Koundé, who's shined as a right-back, could return to the center-back position when necessary. Flick wants flexible alternatives, aware that the season is long and demanding in all competitions. The coach insists that every reinforcement must add, not displace the young players who are already standing out.
Barça, meanwhile, values that this move can be made without excessively altering the finances. The negotiation with Atlético isn't closed yet, but the conditions seem reasonable for both parties. If nothing goes wrong, the signing could be announced within days.
Culé fans desired a game-changing move, and everything now points to it coming from the Metropolitano. Neither Julián Álvarez nor Nahuel Molina, the names most frequently mentioned in rumors, will be the protagonists. The surprise is that the chosen one is considered internally the best defensive gem in the rojiblanca academy.
The player in question is Gerónimo Spina, a 20-year-old Argentine center-back who belongs to Atlético de Madrid. Deco has finalized the agreement after intense negotiations and Flick will have at his disposal the defender he so demanded. With this operation, Barça adds youth, potential, and talent in an unexpected signing that's exciting for the fans.