The transfer market hasn't officially opened yet, but the moves are already starting to shake up FC Barcelona's plans. Although the season has been remarkable, from the Barça offices they know that the room for improvement remains wide.
Deco and Joan Laporta have acknowledged on more than one occasion that the team needs to strengthen several positions. The defense, especially the central axis, is one of the areas with the most urgent need for reinforcement.
Deco | @FCBarcelona_cat
The signing that seemed closed
One of the most advanced moves was the arrival of Jonathan Tah. The Bayer Leverkusen center-back finishes his contract this summer and had kept intense contacts with Barça since January.
Everything pointed to the German defender wearing the blaugrana jersey starting in July. His physical profile, his leadership in the Bundesliga champion Leverkusen, and his status as a free agent made him a golden opportunity.
However, this Friday, the Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano revealed news that completely changes the scenario. Through his social media, Romano confirmed that Jonathan Tah has made a definitive decision... and it doesn't favor Barça.
The player has chosen to accept Bayern Munich's proposal. According to Romano himself, the agreement has already been closed and only the official announcement from the Bavarian club is pending.
Fabrizio Romano reports a move | en.carpetasfcb.com
Bayern gets ahead and closes the signing
The German giant has taken advantage of Barça's inaction to convince the center-back. According to Romano, Bayern presented a formal offer weeks ago that included salary, sports role, and personal conditions already agreed upon.
Tah, tired of waiting for a clear move from Camp Nou, has opted for the safe route: a powerful club, with a clear project and guaranteed Champions presence. The deal is done.
Joan Laporta | @FCBarcelona_es
The news has hit Barça's offices like a cold shower. Internally, they acknowledge that the player was a real priority. His signing didn't require a transfer fee and fit perfectly with the type of defense Flick values.
But salary cap issues and administrative delays have taken their toll. Tah has opted for Bayern, a club that acts quickly and offers immediate sports guarantees.
Flick will have to look for another center-back
Hansi Flick, who knew Tah well from his time in Germany, had given the green light to his arrival. Now, the German coach will have to explore other options to reinforce the defensive axis.
The list of center-backs is shrinking, and the alternatives available in the market have a higher cost or less international experience. The club will have to react soon if they want to avoid new disappointments.
Hansi Flick | @FCBarcelona
With this plot twist, Barça starts the market losing a player who was already seen in the blaugrana jersey. Jonathan Tah has decided to go to Bayern Munich.
Fabrizio Romano has been blunt: there is a total agreement and the announcement is expected in the coming days. Barça is left without one of its priority targets, and Flick will have to redraw his defense without him.
