FC Barcelona has made a firm decision for the upcoming summer market. After weeks of internal work, the sports management has opted for a young national profile. They consider it a safe investment in the short and medium term for the first team.
Both Joan Laporta and Deco have been designing the new Barça project with Flick for months. Although big signings make headlines, Barça knows that fortunes don't always need to be spent. That's why they have closed an intelligent operation that combines quality, youth, and affordable cost.
Strengthening the wings, Flick's priority
The German coach has insisted that he needs more options on the team's wings. The club doesn't want to rely solely on Ferran Torres, Raphinha, and Lamine Yamal. Competing on three fronts requires depth and top-level tactical options.
The profile sought combines speed, dribbling, and the ability to face one-on-one. It is a player who still has room for improvement and a hunger to succeed. A perfect profile to grow at Camp Nou surrounded by talent.
In recent weeks, high-level international options for the attack have been considered. Luis Díaz, from Liverpool, was one of the coaching staff's favorites due to his experience. However, his price automatically takes him out of any realistic equation.
The English team demands at least 80 million euros, a prohibitive figure for the current Barça. Economic limitations force prioritizing operations with sporting returns and room for projection. In that scenario, the Barça offices have found an alternative solution.
Nico Williams also on the list
Another name that is very appealing is Nico Williams, from Athletic Club. His physical profile, dribbling, and youth make him a very interesting option. Additionally, he keeps a great relationship with several Barça players.
Despite mutual interest, his clause and Athletic's stance complicate the operation. That's why Deco activated another more realistic route that has convinced everyone at the club. At that point, the protagonist of this story appears.
The chosen one is...
At just 19 years old, Jesús Rodríguez has become a revelation in LaLiga. His speed, short dribbling, and verticality have made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Most importantly: he already competes as if he had years of experience.
Flick was convinced after several positive reports from his coaching staff about the Betis player. In key matches, he has shown character, tactical intelligence, and the ability to make a difference. His price also makes him a unique opportunity.
Rodríguez has a release clause of 35 million euros. In the current market context, it's a bargain for his level of performance. Barça, very alert to financial Fair Play, considers it a strategic move.
The footballer has already given the green light to join the Barça team. He wants to make the leap to a big club and sees Barça as his ideal destination. His entourage has already kept in contact with the Barça board, and everything is progressing quickly.
Flick wants him for the preseason
Hansi Flick has requested that the player be available from the start of the summer. He considers that he can be important from day one due to his versatile profile. Rodríguez arrives as a game-changer but with the potential to be a starter in the short term.
In addition to youth and talent, he brings direct competition for the current wings. A tactical, economic, and projection signing that fits the club's new policy. Barça makes a market move without compromising its financial future.
While other clubs look outside, Barça bets on young talent from LaLiga. Jesús Rodríguez represents the present and future, and his signing is practically closed. Pending the official announcement, he will be one of the names of the summer.
The Barça fans already dream of seeing him dribble at Montjuïc. Flick, with more offensive options for a team that doesn't want to stop growing.