FC Barcelona has launched a serious offensive to strengthen their attack, and Laporta is personally leading an operation that aims to be one of the summer's moves. The board at Barça have identified at Real Betis an emerging talent who fits perfectly into Hansi Flick's project, both in terms of profile and cost.
Deco already hinted at it days ago: they're not looking for defenders or midfielders, but he didn't say anything about wingers. Hansi Flick, meanwhile, has requested two clear reinforcements: one for the goal and another for the left side of the attack.
Flick | @FCBarcelona
A winger as a priority
While the goal remains surrounded by doubts, Barça are moving forward decisively to secure the arrival of a new winger as soon as possible. The idea is to bring in a young player with potential who's willing to accept a secondary role at first.
Joan Laporta has found that profile in Jesús Rodríguez, a young prospect from Real Betis who's impressed both insiders and outsiders this season in LaLiga. The 19-year-old winger has forcefully entered Barça's agenda.
According to "El Nacional", the first contacts have already taken place between Barça's board and the footballer's representatives. The goal is clear: to learn about his willingness and explore the conditions of a possible transfer.
Joan Laporta | @FCBarcelona_es
The release clause for Jesús Rodríguez is €50 million. Although high, the club considers it a manageable amount compared to other market options that far exceed that figure.
The coaching staff especially value the player's dribbling ability, attacking pace, and personality. Flick is looking for a footballer who can make an immediate impact in the rotations and also represent an investment for the future.
Jesús Rodríguez has shown at Benito Villamarín that he can compete at the highest level. He would bring freshness and alternatives to the left side of the attack, an area where Barça need more depth.
An alternative to Luis Díaz
The initial plan was Luis Díaz, but his signing has become more expensive and presents more difficulties. That's why Laporta has shifted toward a more accessible profile, but just as interesting.
Paying the Betis player's clause would eliminate lengthy negotiations. In addition, it would allow the club to save time and prevent other teams from entering the race for the winger.
At just 19 years old, the Betis player has attracted attention for his boldness and maturity. Despite his young age, he has been key in several matches for Betis, which has given him the perfect showcase to make the leap to a big club.
Barça believe that he would fit in well in the locker room and that he could quickly adapt to the demands of a club like Barça. In addition, his room for improvement is enormous, something highly valued by Flick.
Laporta wants to close the deal soon
Barça's president doesn't want the signing to drag on. He knows that the market moves quickly and that letting time pass could make the deal more expensive or even make it unfeasible.
For this reason, negotiations could speed up in the coming days. Barça are clear that Jesús Rodríguez fits their model and that his arrival would strengthen the team's competitiveness.
Deco | FC Barcelona
Everything suggests that this will be the key summer for Betis's young talent. If the conditions are kept and Barça consider him a priority, the deal could be closed sooner than desired.
Jesús Rodríguez has what Barça are looking for: youth, ambition, and a reasonable cost. His arrival would provide another boost for the new project led by Flick and backed by Laporta.
