In FC Barcelona's offices, they're making good progress in sports planning for the upcoming season. After securing the signings of Joan García for the goal and Roony Bardghji as a desired prospect, the sporting management has practically finalized the arrival of Nico Williams. The Athletic winger will be a key piece in the new attack Hansi Flick is preparing.
But the market won't stop there. With several positions still needing reinforcement and a coaching staff that wants internal competition in every spot, Barça is already working on what will be its fourth signing of the summer. Deco is leading the negotiations and has already started talks to fill a very specific role: the full-back.
Deco marks it as a priority
The next operation that will be activated after Nico Williams's signing will be the signing of a new full-back. The priority is to bring in a footballer who combines experience, offensive projection, and versatility. Hansi Flick considers it key to improve performance in that area of the field, and he has already approved some profiles that fit his ideas.
One of the names most liked in the offices is Joao Cancelo, who was already on loan at the club. Although his performance had ups and downs, his versatility and international experience make him an interesting option. However, his high salary and the fact that he belongs to Al-Hilal complicate the operation, which for now remains open.
Another name on the list is Alejandro Grimaldo. The Bayer Leverkusen full-back has had an outstanding season in the Bundesliga and would be an interesting addition, having been trained at La Masia. His more traditional profile as a left-back and his ability to contribute in attack are highly valued, but his price has increased and Leverkusen won't make his departure easy.
In addition to Cancelo and Grimaldo, Deco is studying more accessible alternatives, both in the domestic and international markets. They are considering young profiles with room for improvement or veteran players whose contracts are ending, as long as they fit Flick's style. The key will be not to compromise the club's financial balance.
Deadline set
Barça's intention is to complete this addition in the short term, ideally before the official start of preseason. With Nico Williams's signing about to become official, the focus of the sporting management will immediately shift to the full-back. It's a position they consider a priority.
Meanwhile, Flick has already set his preferences and hopes to have as defined a working group as possible as soon as possible. Deco will make the final decision in the coming days. Barça's fourth signing is underway and will be key to strengthening the squad the German coach wants to build.