Barça Is Already Planning the Next Transfer Market and Is Clear That Full-Backs Will Be an Absolute Priority. Although the left winger will be the main focus of investment, the management doesn't want to forget about improving the position. Hansi Flick considers that improving the options at full-back is key to increasing the team's competitiveness and facing all competitions with guarantees.
The idea is to incorporate players who provide depth and range on the wings and also offer alternatives. Barça is aware that its current starters on the wings have performed at a high level, but the lack of reliable replacements could take a toll in a long season.
The Problem of Replacements
In Hansi Flick's scheme, Jules Koundé and Alejandro Balde Are Indisputable. Both have shown solid and consistent performance, becoming key pieces in the German coach's plans.
Koundé, adapted to right-back despite his natural profile as a center-back, has proven to be a defensive wall without giving up on attack. Balde, with his speed and dribbling, is at his best this season.
However, the problem arises when thinking about rotations or covering possible injuries. Gerard Martín and Héctor Fort Are the Current Replacements, but neither reaches the necessary level to maintain competitiveness when the starters need rest.
Flick Doesn't Give Opportunities to Héctor Fort
Specifically, the right-back is undoubtedly the most delicate position in the squad. Hansi Flick has full confidence in Jules Koundé, but the lack of a high-level substitute has led the Frenchman to play the most minutes of the entire squad. Héctor Fort, the Natural Alternative, Hasn't Convinced the German Coach, Who Has Barely Given Him Opportunities throughout the season.
The overload of matches for Koundé is a real concern for the coaching staff, and the sports management knows that finding a solution is urgent. Signing a Competitive Right-Back Who Can Alternate Starting with Koundé Is a Clear Priority for the next market.
Barça Strongly Bets on the Trendy Full-Back
In the search for a new right-back, the name gaining the most traction in the offices is Andrei Ratiu. According to 'E-Notícies', the Romanian player Is the Favorite of the sports management to reinforce that wing. Ratiu stands out for his offensive projection, speed, and dribbling ability, and he amazed the other day in Montjuïc.
The Great Attraction of Ratiu Is His Future Projection and His Release Clause, Set at 25 Million Euros. An affordable figure for the current market considering the player's potential. The management is seriously evaluating the operation and it is not ruled out that the first formal contacts with his entourage will begin in the coming weeks.