The transfer market keeps moving and, on this occasion, Pep Guardiola has taken the lead in the race for a promising goalkeeper. Manchester City is looking for a reliable replacement for Ederson, and their main target is a young talent on Barça's radar.
This move could indirectly benefit Wojciech Szczęsny, as FC Barcelona, facing the imminent departure of the goalkeeper to the Premier League, might choose to retain the Pole.
Barça Had Him on the List, but City Gets Ahead
FC Barcelona has closely followed the player in recent months. The young 23-year-old goalkeeper is one of France's greatest promises, with spectacular reflexes and a great ability to play with his feet.
However, Barça's delicate financial situation makes competing with Manchester City's millions practically impossible. Joan Laporta and Deco have considered the possibility of signing him, but the club remains constrained by financial fair play.
A team with greater purchasing power had to appear on the scene. Pep Guardiola didn't take long to make a move.
Ederson's Successor: City's New Víctor Valdés
Manchester City is preparing changes in their squad. Ederson, the goalkeeper who has been key in the club's successes in recent years, could be facing his last season in England. Although he remains a reference in goal, his performance has started to raise doubts and City is looking for a future alternative.
In this context, Chevalier has become the priority to replace the Brazilian. His technique, reflexes, and security under the posts have caught Guardiola's attention, who sees him as an ideal goalkeeper for his system of play.
His ability to play the ball out and his calmness under pressure make him similar to what Víctor Valdés was in Guardiola's Barça. It's no coincidence that the Catalan coach has set his sights on him.
What About Barça? Szczęsny Gains Prominence
Meanwhile, as City advances with Chevalier, Barça might be forced to change their strategy. With Marc-André ter Stegen recovering from his injury, the blaugrana club signed Wojciech Szczęsny as an emergency reinforcement.
The veteran Polish goalkeeper has performed at a very high level, with memorable performances like the one he had against Benfica in the Champions League. However, he is 34 years old, so the sports management continues to look for a generational replacement.
Chevalier's move to City could make Barça opt for another profile, or even Flick and Laporta might decide to renew Szczęsny for another year.
Lucas Chevalier's future seems increasingly closer to Manchester City, which would leave Barça without one of their favorite options to strengthen the goal.
Meanwhile, the Catalan club continues to work on alternatives. Without ruling out that Szczęsny continues or that another young goalkeeper is sought who can take on the responsibility in the medium term.
The summer will be key to resolving this situation. But what seems clear is that Chevalier is closer to becoming City's new Víctor Valdés.