Joan Laporta wants to make a statement with a star signing this summer. In his first term leading the club, he already made a mark with the arrival of Ronaldinho in 2003, an operation that marked the beginning of a new era full of successes. In 2022, he repeated the move with the addition of Robert Lewandowski, a signing that brought leadership and goals to the team.
Now, with the 2026 elections on the horizon, Laporta wants to generate excitement among the fans with a high-profile signing. With Flick on the bench, the team excites and shows it has a spectacular future, but Laporta wants to put the cherry on top.
The Great Options Managed by the Sports Management
Leaving aside the presidential side, Barça knows that in the sports field it needs to strengthen the wings. Currently, the team has Lamine Yamal and Raphinha as starters and Ferran as a game-changer, but it doesn't have a fourth reliable man.
In this regard, the names most liked in the offices are Nico Williams, Luis Díaz, and Rafael Leão. Each with different characteristics, but all fit the profile of a destabilizing winger that Barça is looking for. Additionally, there are more alternatives like Leroy Sané, who could arrive as a free agent if he doesn't renew his contract with Bayern Munich.
Barça Opts for Luis Díaz
Among all the options on the table, the name gaining the most strength is Luis Díaz. The Colombian has emerged in recent days as Deco's favorite to strengthen the attack. His speed, dribbling, and ability to make a difference in one-on-one situations make him an ideal profile for Flick's system.
However, the signing of Luis Díaz wouldn't be cheap and his starting price would be around 80 million euros. The operation won't be easy, as Barça doesn't know if it will remain in 1:1, but the board is exploring ways to make it viable.
Competition for the Signing
Barça is clear that it will attempt to sign Luis Díaz this summer, but it won't be the only club interested. According to 'El Nacional.cat', Chelsea has already initiated contacts with the player's entourage to explore his possible incorporation. The English team, which has demonstrated in recent markets its ability to make large investments, could put a more enticing offer on the table for Liverpool.
In this scenario, Barça will need to move quickly if it wants to secure its main target. Although the player's desire to join Barça will also play a key role in the operation, the financial situation of the blaugrana club could be an obstacle in the negotiation. What is clear is that Joan Laporta is determined to sign a star this summer, and Luis Díaz is, as of today, the main candidate.