Barcelona has experienced another intense summer in terms of signings. The sporting management has worked tirelessly to strengthen the positions that most needed depth, while also facing economic difficulties and the limitations of financial "fair play." Despite the complications, the general feeling at the club is that the squad is better balanced than in the previous season.
However, the market has also brought unexpected blows: Iñigo Martínez's departure to Al-Nassr surprised everyone at Camp Nou. The Basque center-back, who had been a key piece in the defensive scheme, accepted the offer from Saudi soccer, leaving a significant gap in an already delicate area. With this move, the culé backline is now somewhat shorter than expectedand has forced a rethink of the plans.
The dilemma in defense
In principle, the first team squad is designed to have four center-backs, but now it only has three main names: Pau Cubarsí, Ronald Araújo, and Andreas Christensen. The homegrown player has earned an undisputed starting spot, while the other two will compete to accompany him in the defensive axis. As emergency alternatives, the use of full-backs like Eric García or Gerard Martín is being considered, as well as the occasional option of Jules Koundé.
This configuration seemed sufficient until the market reopened in January. However, the planning doesn't want to leave any loose ends. Having only three pure center-backs for the entire first half of the season poses a risk, especially considering the packed schedule with La Liga, Champions, and Copa.
For this reason, the club's offices do not rule out a last-minute move.
Deco looks for an unexpected reinforcement
According to Fichajes.net,Deco is working quietly to bring in a fourth center-back in this same market. The idea is not to make a major investment, but to bet on a young defender who can join with a reserve team contract, offering depth and competition. It would be a low-cost operation, conceived more as a security measure than as a star signing.
For now, no specific names have emerged, but the plan is set. Barça will try to find a player who fits that profile before the summer window closes. The financial margin is very limited, since the priority remains registering the already confirmed reinforcements, with the case of Marcus Rashford still pending resolution.
If the opportunity arises, Deco is ready to move quickly to seize it.