FC Barcelona has identified a top priority that must be solved before the official season begins. Jules Koundé's injury at the end of last season has left the right-back position without an owner. That's why Hansi Flick has demanded to bring in a reliable reinforcement for that delicate position as soon as possible.
The sporting management, led by Deco, is already working against the clock to fulfill the new coach's wishes. The club's financial situation requires them to be very strategic with every move in the market. They don't want to make mistakes, and the goal is to sign someone proven, with experience in LaLiga.
The focus has shifted to a very specific team, where a footballer plays who is liked for many reasons. Real Sociedad has become the key to this lightning operation that Barça wants to close in days. All eyes are on Donosti, where Flick's ideal player is located.
Flick wants guarantees, not bets
The German coach has been clear since his arrival: he doesn't want experiments, but rather profiles ready to compete now. He is looking for a reliable full-back, who masters defensive automatisms and has a good touch to play out from the back. In his playing model, full-backs are essential pieces both in defense and in build-up.
Several alternatives have been tested during this preseason without success, which has accelerated the search process. Eric García hasn't convinced while playing on the flank, and Koundé insists on returning to the center of the defense. In this context, the urgency to bring in a real reinforcement has skyrocketed.
The list of names has been long, but almost all have been ruled out for economic or technical reasons. Some young profiles don't generate enough consensus within the coaching staff and that has greatly reduced the options. That's why the operation with Real Sociedad appears to be the most viable and effective.
Experience, projection, and availability
The Donostia club has a full-back who has convinced with his character, consistency, and strong competitive level. Last season he was key for Imanol Alguacil, playing important matches both in LaLiga and in Europe. His physique, tactical awareness, and willingness to sacrifice have made him stand out without needing the spotlight.
Moreover, his contract situation is accessible and his salary fits the new financial framework of FC Barcelona. He doesn't have a high release clause and the player himself would be delighted to make the move to Camp Nou. His entourage has already informed the club that there is total willingness to reach an agreement.
Barça has received the green light to move forward, as long as it doesn't affect other priority operations for the squad. Flick has requested that the deal be closed this week so he can join the group dynamic as soon as possible. The Asian tour is key for him to quickly adapt to the style and his new teammates.
The chosen one to reinforce the full-back position
The footballer in question is Jon Aramburu, one of the pleasant surprises of last season in LaLiga. At just 21 years old, he has shown that he can perform with maturity and keep a high level consistently. Flick considers him an ideal option: he knows the league, has room for improvement, and a lot of ambition.
Barça believes that Aramburu represents one of those market opportunities that can't be missed. He is young, reliable, and his competitive character is appreciated in the locker room and by the coaching staff. Moreover, he wouldn't represent a significant economic or contractual burden in a summer of maximum austerity.
The blaugrana club trusts it can close the signing in a matter of days to register him before the league starts. If everything goes well, Aramburu will be a Barça player very soon and will strengthen a key position for Flick. A quick, coherent, and strategic move to face the new season with guarantees from the very first minute.