FC Barcelona continues to scour the market in search of opportunities that fit their sporting and financial planning. With the arrival of summer, Deco and his team have intensified their reports on several specific profiles to improve the squad. One of the positions where they seek real competition is right back.
Although Jules Koundé's performance has been more than adequate playing outside his natural position, Barça's board believes that a specialist is needed for that flank. In this context, a new name has started to gain traction on the Catalan club's agenda. This is Daniel Muñoz, current Crystal Palace player in the Premier League.
The Colombian has attracted attention for his consistency, his commitment in defense, and his ability to join the attack. Since his arrival in English soccer, he has proven to be a complete footballer, with good physical attributes and notable tactical awareness. In addition, his price would be much more affordable than other targets such as Jeremie Frimpong or Juan Foyth.
Daniel Muñoz emerges as option
At 28 years old, Daniel Muñoz is experiencing a moment of footballing maturity that makes him an attractive option for FC Barcelona. His great experience in the English league, now combined with his prominence with the Colombian national team, positions him as a reliable right back to face high-level challenges. He is one of the reference footballers in English soccer and is highly regarded within the blaugrana club.
According to sources close to the blaugrana club, Deco values both the player's competitive character and his versatility. Daniel can play both as a right back and as a wing-back in a five-man line. This is a resource that fits with the systems Hansi Flick has used this season and that could be kept with the future coach.
Contract until 2027
His contract with Crystal Palace runs until June 2027, which could make his departure difficult. However, Barça's interest hasn't cooled, and from England they point out that an offer close to €35 million could open the door to his transfer. Daniel Muñoz would be delighted to wear FC Barcelona's blaugrana jersey.
Deco de Souza himself has closely followed his development since he arrived at Belgian club Genk, where he already stood out for his ability to cover the entire flank. His signing wouldn't require a major investment, which makes him a realistic option considering the Financial Fair Play limitations the club is facing. In addition, the club values that the player wouldn't require a long adaptation period, given his enormous maturity, strong international background, and knowledge of European soccer.
The operation will depend on the moves the club can make in terms of sales and the salary margin they manage to free up. Daniel Muñoz isn't the first high-profile option Barça has considered, but he does stand out as an effective and coherent alternative for the new sporting project. The interest is on the table, and Deco has already taken the first steps to analyze its viability.