Barça has already started to make moves in the transfer market ahead of next season. The club wants to strengthen three positions: left winger, goalkeeper, and left back. Although the latter isn't the absolute priority, at Can Barça they're aware that they need more solidity and depth on that side.
With Flick in charge, the idea is to build a balanced squad, with real competition in every area. In this regard, Gerard Martín isn't convincing. That's why, even though other positions are prioritized, the club is keeping an eye on the opportunities the market offers in that sector.
Grimaldo has offered himself
One of those unexpected opportunities is Alejandro Grimaldo. The Spanish left back, who's shined this season with Bayer Leverkusen, has offered himself to Barça. The player wants to return home and is willing to leave Germany this very summer.
The surprising thing is that his departure could be finalized for a figure between €15 and €20 million (about $16.4 and $21.9 million), something very affordable considering his level. At Can Barça, this possibility has been pleasantly surprising. Grimaldo, who came up through the youth academy, would be an ideal option due to his offensive profile, his quality in striking the ball, and his football maturity.
Gerard Martín holds the key
Barça wants to take advantage of this opportunity and to do so, it must free up space in its squad. In this regard, Grimaldo's arrival requires Gerard Martín's departure. The young left back has fulfilled his role as Balde's replacement, but he hasn't managed to establish himself as a long-term solution.
The key lies in the growing interest Gerard Martín has sparked in the Premier League. Several English clubs have valued his profile highly, and that could be a golden opportunity for Barça.
Bournemouth and Wolves lurk
In that sense, offers have already started to arrive. From England, two clubs have clearly positioned themselves for Gerard Martín: Bournemouth, managed by Andoni Iraola, Wolves, and Manchester United. Both are willing to pay around €15 million (about $16.4 million) for the left back.
In the offices, this possible exchange is already being discussed as a masterstroke to strengthen the left back position.