Barcelona faces an urgency that can no longer be postponed: strengthening the right-back position with a reliable profile. Hansi Flick has been clear since his arrival, and he doesn't want improvisations in such a decisive position. Jules Koundé has filled in as a stopgap, but his natural place remains at the center of the defense.
Freeing the Frenchman from that role is one of the main objectives of the coaching staff. The lack of specific competition is concerning, especially with such a demanding schedule ahead. Flick's demand is to have a player capable of performing from day one.
A specific profile for Flick's system
Since the start of preseason, the German coach has insisted on the type of full-back he needs. He wants a player who is deep, covers ground, is tactically solid, and is used to high competitive demands. He isn't looking for medium-term prospects, but proven realities.
Sporting planning has already revolved around this top priority. Deco has activated several operations in search of the right piece, filtering out options that don't meet the requirements. Some have fallen through due to price, others due to a lack of fit in the system.
Barça has looked toward the Bundesliga and the Premier League, but negotiations at this time are complex. Selling clubs don't want to lose key players in the middle of preseason. This has led to prioritizing a more accessible market: LaLiga.
The domestic market, a more accessible route
Within the Spanish league, there are full-backs who combine experience, pace, and knowledge of the competitive environment. In addition, signing them is more agile in logistical terms, which is key in these weeks. The club doesn't want to wait until the last day to finalize this reinforcement.
Internal reports indicate that it's possible to find a solution without compromising economic stability. The budget for this operation is tight, but sufficient if the right opportunity arises. The demand is clear: the new full-back will compete for a starting spot from the very first minute.
In recent hours, a candidate has emerged who wasn't in the initial predictions. His name has caused consensus both in the coaching staff and in the sporting management. His experience on big stages and his versatility place him in a privileged position.
Flick's chosen one
The player who has convinced Barça is Nahuel Molina, Atlético de Madrid's right-back and world champion with Argentina. He has established himself as one of the best in his position in LaLiga. His physical power, consistency, and tactical commitment fit perfectly with Flick's vision.
The Argentine stands out for his ability to join the attack without neglecting his defensive duties. At Atlético, he has been a key piece for Simeone, showing reliability in matches of the highest demand. In addition, his experience in the Champions League makes him a safe bet for a Barça that wants to compete for everything.
The Catalan club is willing to put an offer of 20 million euros on the table. The figure matches the value they consider reasonable and that could entice Atlético if it needs liquidity. The player's willingness, who views the move favorably, will be decisive in unlocking the operation.
Negotiations with room but without pause
Deco has initiated contacts with Molina's camp and has made Barça's firm interest clear. It won't be an easy negotiation, but it isn't seen as impossible at this time. The harmony between the parties could be key to reaching a quick agreement.
The club trusts it can finalize the signing before the end of July. The idea is for the player to join Flick's dynamic as soon as possible. The sooner he adapts, the more likely he is to start the season as a starter.
Signing Nahuel Molina would allow Koundé to return to his natural position and would strengthen defensive solidity. In addition, it would provide offensive depth, something Flick considers essential for his full-backs. Ultimately, a strategic move to strengthen a weak point of the team.