FC Barcelona is about to finalize a strategic signing for its defensive line. This is a player who is established in Europe, with extensive international experience and the ability to occupy the left flank. The club is seeking immediate solutions that will allow Jules Koundé and Alejandro Balde to get some relief.
Last season made it clear that both full-backs ended up physically exhausted during several stretches of the year. Flick wants a squad that doesn't depend on just two names to cover such demanding positions. This particular signing seems to fit perfectly with what the German coach is looking for.
Flick has been clear with Deco and Laporta: he needs reliable rotations, not just circumstantial stopgaps. The new project requires defensive solidity, speed on the wing, and the ability to join the attack with quality. The profile he has selected meets all those requirements to the letter.
Barça doesn't want to repeat past mistakes, when the full-backs played every minute without real rest. That's why the club has worked quietly to finalize this key addition as soon as possible. The goal is to reach the official start of the season with the signing already integrated into the group dynamic.
A strategic signing to strengthen the left flank
During the previous campaign, Balde and Koundé played too many minutes, with a clear impact on their performance. The lack of direct competition led to physical and tactical problems, especially in decisive matches. This time, Flick doesn't want any surprises and is demanding reinforcements with guarantees from day one.
The new player knows LaLiga, masters both three- and four-defender systems, and adapts to various schemes. He can play as an attacking full-back or tuck inside as a midfielder depending on the needs of the moment. That versatility has been key for the sporting management to place him at the top of the list.
In addition, his competitive mentality fits with the new style that is intended to be implemented at Can Barça. He is a committed profile, with leadership, and capable of raising the team's level without demanding an immediate starting spot. A perfect piece to keep the balance without altering hierarchies.
According to Fabrizio Romano, the agreement is very close and only contractual details remain. The player's entourage has already given the green light and expects the official announcement to come in the next few hours. This is a strategic, not a media-driven, signing, but absolutely necessary for Flick.
Barça prioritizes solidity over names
This move represents a clear shift in FC Barcelona's sporting planning policy. Instead of betting on big attacking names, the focus is on covering key positions without overloading the starters. Flick has prioritized balance, rotation, and reliability in defense.
With this new reinforcement, Barça will be able to face three competitions without fear of wearing out physically on the flanks. Koundé will be able to play more centrally if needed, while Balde will have time to rest. It's an important step toward a more complete and competitive squad.
The coaching staff has insisted heavily on the need to stop improvising in defense. Emergency solutions didn't work last season and cost valuable points. That's why this addition comes as a breath of fresh air for a very demanding sector of the team.
This won't be an arrival with the shine of a media-forward or with viral videos on social media. But inside the locker room, they know this operation could make the difference in the team's overall performance. Squad depth always shows in the key months of the calendar.
It will be the fourth signing of the summer
Now it can be confirmed: the chosen player is Álex Grimaldo. Left-back, trained at La Masia, champion with Bayer Leverkusen, and considered one of the best in his position. His return home is a masterstroke for Barça, which gains rotation, experience, and culé DNA without major outlays.
Grimaldo arrives to fill the gap that has so worried the club in recent seasons. He can alternate with Balde on the left and allow Koundé to return to his natural position as a center-back. In addition, his great shot and attacking vision make him ideal for Flick's plans.
With this addition, Barça considers its defense closed and now focuses its efforts on the midfield. Grimaldo becomes the fourth signing after Rashford, Joan García, and Roony, although undoubtedly one of the most valuable. The full-back who should never have left returns.