Barcelona continues working on planning for next season and is clear that one of its priorities is to bring in a winger who can provide imbalance and depth to the attack. Hansi Flick has communicated to the sporting management his need to have a player capable of taking on defenders, beating them, and providing offensive solutions in one-on-one situations. It's no wonder: the German coach considers a player with that profile essential for his play style.
After ruling out the option of Nico Williams due to his contract renewal with Athletic Club, the Catalan club is still exploring alternatives in the market. Luis Díaz and Marcus Rashford are the names that have gained the most traction in recent weeks, although both deals present financial obstacles that complicate their arrival at the Catalan club. Meanwhile, Deco and his team aren't ruling out other avenues to strengthen the squad, aware that they'll need to make a move before the start of Barça's preseason.
On the shortlist, but with a high price
Among the options Barça is considering, Antonio Nusa's name has emerged strongly, a young winger who plays for RB Leipzig. His speed, ability to beat defenders on both flanks, and his potential have made him one of the top prospects in European soccer. At Camp Nou, they see him as a long-term investment with the potential to fit into Flick's system, although he wouldn't be signed to be an immediate starter.
The problem lies in Leipzig's demands: according to reports, the German club has informed Deco that it won't let Nusa leave for less than €50 million. This is an amount that currently exceeds Barça's financial capabilities. With a tight salary cap and the need to balance the books, paying that sum for a player still in development is seen as a very risky move.
Signing dependent on departures
Despite the difficulties, the sporting management isn't ruling out that the situation could change, especially since Flick is prioritizing a more established profile. If Leipzig lowers its demands or if Barça secures significant income from the sale of players such as Ronald Araújo or Andreas Christensen, the deal for Nusa could be revived. In addition, his versatility—he can play on both wings and even centrally—is a point in his favor in the coaching staff's assessment.
For now, Deco is keeping Nusa on the shortlist, while continuing to focus efforts on securing a top-level reinforcement for the winger position. In any case, the Norwegian perfectly represents the type of signings Joan Laporta is seeking: young players with talent and potential. The club wants to find talents capable of growing within the Barça project and providing both sporting and financial returns in the future.