FC Barcelona faces a crucial weekend with the Clásico in sight. While the sports focus is on Real Madrid, the offices are already shaping the squad for the next season. In that plan, there are signings considered priorities.
One of the most sensitive areas to strengthen is the defense. More specifically, the right-back position, which has raised doubts for much of the season. Flick's demand is clear: he wants new pieces to balance his defensive line.
Koundé's physical load, a warning sign
Jules Koundé has been essential for the team, but his accumulation of minutes is concerning. Muscle injuries and the lack of a natural replacement have put the focus on that position. The sports management considers it urgent to sign a competitive and offensive profile.
For weeks, Deco and Flick have worked together in identifying candidates. The name that has gained the most traction is the same one that was already on the agenda a year ago. This time, the context is different.
Barça's main target for that position is Jeremie Frimpong, Bayer Leverkusen's right-back. The Dutchman has been observed by the club for months, which already attempted to sign him last summer. At that time, financial fair play limitations prevented it.
Now, with more budgetary leeway expected for the summer market, the operation is back on the table. Frimpong has completed another remarkable season under Xabi Alonso's orders, establishing himself as one of the most unbalancing full-backs in Europe.
His numbers support the interest
At 24 years old, the Dutch international has scored 4 goals and provided 11 assists in 40 matches. He has been a vital piece in Leverkusen's offensive system, which has fought for everything in Germany. His speed, deployment, and ability to reach the goal have increased his value.
The player is open to a change of scenery to take a leap in his career. Barça's option attracts him, but it won't be the only proposal he receives this summer. Several clubs have already shown concrete interest.
The threat from Liverpool
Journalist Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Bayer Leverkusen has already set its stance. The German team will only let Frimpong leave for a figure close to 40 million euros. It's an amount that exceeds what Barça has planned for this position.
Even so, the interest remains alive within the club, which is studying ways to handle the cost. The need to strengthen the full-backs is clear, although the main focus remains on the attack. Deco and Flick are evaluating if the investment is worth the effort.
Barcelona is not alone in this race. Liverpool is also very alert to the situation of the Dutch right-back. The English could seek a replacement for Alexander-Arnold if he finally moves to Real Madrid.
Frimpong would fit perfectly into Klopp's team's style, and the 'reds' would be willing to pay the full amount. This complicates the operation for the blaugranas, who can't enter high bids without carefully planning every euro.