Barça has a very clear strategy for this transfer window and the budget will be allocated to strengthening the left wing.
The German coach has already given the green light to this investment, aware that he needs more attacking depth to compete. It's not just about signing for the sake of signing, but about finding a specific profile that fits the team's style and raises the squad's competitive level.
A need to give starters a rest
During the 2024-2025 season, Lamine Yamal and Raphinha were the absolute owners of the flanks. Their performance was outstanding, but they were also forced to accumulate a large number of minutes due to the lack of quality rotations. The club wants to avoid this scenario in the next campaign, which is why it has set as a top priority to give them real competition.
Signing a left winger would help balance the squad, distribute efforts better, and keep the intensity in wing play. In addition, it would offer Flick new tactical options, as he seeks greater dynamism and unpredictability in the final third. The arrival of a new winger would allow for better management of the physical load and help avoid relying so much on the same names match after match.
Laporta won't rush with the price
However, according to El Nacional, Joan Laporta and his management team are clear that they're not going to do anything crazy regarding the price. While there is a budget set aside for the left winger, the club's financial priority is aimed at next year. In other words, this summer's signing will be important, but without compromising the big move for 2026.
The blaugrana president is aware that the club still needs to stabilize economically, which is why he's looking for smart deals. The idea is to sign a useful and competitive player for this year, without mortgaging the future or getting into a price war with other European giants. Everything will be done sensibly and within very clearly defined budget limits.
Julián Álvarez, the big goal for 2026
Barça's top priority for the summer of 2026 has a first and last name: Julián Álvarez. The Argentine striker from Atlético de Madrid is highly regarded by the sporting management and is considered the ideal replacement for Robert Lewandowski, whose contract ends precisely that year.
Julián Álvarez, world champion with Argentina, is seen as a player with the perfect profile to lead the culé attack in the future. His youth, work rate, and goal-scoring instinct make him a safe bet. That's why, even though this summer the focus is on strengthening the wings, Barça are already working quietly to make the big signing happen within a year.