Eric García has been a valuable asset for FC Barcelona in recent times. His ability to play as a center-back or even as a pivot has allowed him to remain useful within Hansi Flick's scheme. However, this versatility hasn't been enough to establish himself as an undisputed starter.
This season he has alternated between being a substitute and making occasional appearances, and although his attitude has always been exemplary, the club considers that it's time for him to take a step forward in his career. His market value is around 15 million euros, and his profile interests several teams, including Real Sociedad.
Real Sociedad Go After Eric
In San Sebastián, they have been closely following Eric García for months. Imanol Alguacil sees him as an ideal reinforcement to bolster the defense, especially after the possible departure of key players in the summer. In fact, in January they already tried to finalize his signing, but Barça blocked it at the last moment.
Now, with the 2025/26 planning underway, Real is back in the game. This time it wouldn't be a simple purchase, but a more complex operation: an exchange that would benefit both clubs and could be finalized in the coming weeks.
The name that has come up is none other than Takefusa Kubo. The 24-year-old Japanese winger is having a fantastic season at Real Sociedad. His imbalance, speed, and ability to create danger in one-on-one situations make him one of the profiles that Hansi Flick likes the most.
At Barça, they value his progression and consider that he could fit very well in a team looking for vertical wingers with dribbling skills. The idea is clear: to use Eric García as a bargaining chip to lower the cost of Kubo, whose current value is around 30 million euros.
Two Possible Formulas
The culé sports management considers two main avenues. The first would be a loan with a mandatory purchase option for Eric García, which would allow them to free up salary space and facilitate the arrival of the Japanese player. The second, more ambitious, would be a direct exchange with amounts adjusted to the values of both players.
In either case, Barça understands that including Eric García in the operation is key to reducing Kubo's price. Additionally, the player has already been informed of Real's interest and wouldn't mind a change of scenery that guarantees him playing time.
Hansi Flick has given the green light to Eric's departure, as long as the club secures an addition that elevates the offensive level. Takefusa Kubo meets all the requirements. He's young, has experience in LaLiga, and his style fits what the German coach wants for his right wing.
With Lamine Yamal as undisputed, Barça needs another player who can compete for the position or act in rotations. Kubo, moreover, can play on both wings, which adds value to a squad seeking more dynamism.
Exchange That Could Unlock Other Signings
The possible departure of Eric García would also allow Barça to free up space to strengthen other positions. In the offices, they don't rule out looking for a right-back to compete with Koundé or even a center-back with a more physical profile.
For now, the operation with Real Sociedad is in an advanced stage and could be defined before the end of the season. Eric García's future seems to be far from Camp Nou, and Barça is already working to turn that departure into a strategic arrival: that of Takefusa Kubo.