Real Madrid is close to finalizing the acquisition of Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad after activating his 60M euro clause. Leaving FC Barcelona without one of their priorities to strengthen the midfield.
However, far from lamenting, Hansi Flick has reacted immediately, and his response is a signing that could have an even greater impact.
Flick Moves Quickly
Barça has been following Zubimendi for years, and with Xavi Hernández in charge, his signing was a priority. However, the club's financial problems prevented his arrival. Now that Madrid is about to sign him, Flick has decided to act quickly and request a reinforcement that could be even more decisive in his system of play.
The Japanese winger, trained at La Masia, has had an impressive evolution at Real Sociedad and has become one of the best strikers in LaLiga. His ability to unbalance, his versatility, and his great technical talent make him an ideal option for Flick's Barça.
The Signing Barça Needs
Unlike Zubimendi, Kubo would bring a differential factor to Barcelona's offense. With Flick in charge, the culé team seeks a vertical and dynamic game, and the Japanese player fits perfectly into this scheme.
- Versatile Winger: He can play on both wings or even as an attacking midfielder.
- Trained at La Masia: He knows the club's playing philosophy.
- Dribbling and Technique: He is a key player at Real Sociedad, capable of unbalancing tight defenses.
- Experience in LaLiga and Europe: He has shown his quality in competitions like the Champions League.
One of Barça's major problems in recent years has been their limited financial capacity to sign players. But in this case, Kubo's signing is more accessible than Zubimendi's.
His release clause is around 50M, but Barça could negotiate a lower price due to their good relationship with Real Sociedad. At 23 years old, Kubo represents a long-term investment. His arrival would allow Flick to have a more complete rotation in attack, without the need to spend astronomical figures on players like Nico Williams or Rafael Leao.
Flick Bets on a More Offensive Barça
With Kubo's addition, Barça would strengthen their attack with a player who fits into the new project. Instead of lamenting Zubimendi's signing by Madrid, Flick has turned a possible defeat into a great victory.
Take Kubo's arrival at FC Barcelona could be one of the great surprises of the summer. His talent, adaptability, and knowledge of the club make him a strategic option for Flick's Barça.
Meanwhile, Madrid celebrates Zubimendi's arrival, Barça could respond with an even smarter move, signing one of the most promising offensive talents in Europe.