In recent weeks, Barça's sports management has worked with unusual discretion. The goal was clear: to find a young, competitive player with immediate capacity for the first team.
Joan Laporta, Deco, and Flick have made a strategic decision, away from big headlines, but very effective. The club now prioritizes market intelligence over media names or excessive investments.
Flick defines the profile: speed, dribbling, and room for growth
The German coach requested it from his presentation. Barça needs verticality on the wing and offensive options. With Raphinha, Ferran Torres, and Lamine, there is quality, but dynamic solutions for stalled matches are lacking.
Flick wants wingers who create real danger, capable of breaking defenses with one-on-one and speed. Also, who are ready to compete from day one, not just in an indefinite future.
During the analysis, significant names appeared on the agenda. Luis Díaz, from Liverpool, was to Flick's liking. However, the English team demands more than 80 million, which made the operation unfeasible.
Nico Williams was also evaluated. His projection is appealing, but his clause and Athletic's firmness complicate any attempt. In this context, Barça sought a more efficient and realistic alternative route.
An emerging name that convinced everyone after several reports
It was then that a LaLiga player began to stand out in all the club's technical analyses. A national winger, young, fast, and with surprising maturity in his decision-making.
Flick quickly requested full videos of his matches. What he saw exceeded his expectations: natural dribbling, defensive sacrifice, offensive bravery, and character. In the words of the coaching staff, "he's the type of player who can change matches."
Beyond his sporting profile, the operation stands out for its economic viability. The player has a release clause close to 35 million euros.
In an inflated market, that figure is considered an opportunity that Barça couldn't pass up. Additionally, the footballer has shown total willingness to join the project from the first contact.
Smooth contacts, imminent agreement, and shared desire
The negotiation has flowed without obstacles. The player's environment sees Barça as the ideal destination for growth. Several meetings have already taken place with Deco and his team.
Flick has requested his immediate incorporation into the preseason. He believes he can adapt quickly and play official minutes in the first matches. The signing is agreed upon and only needs to be made official.
The signing not only adds depth but also adds healthy competition in a position where alternatives were lacking. Lamine and Raphinha will now have a new direct rival for the position.
Flick values this as a key stimulus to keep the locker room's level high. In Montjuïc, the fans are already getting excited about a name that, until recently, was only heard in technical circles.
The best-kept secret is now a reality
Now, the name can be confirmed. The player who has so captivated Flick is Jesús Rodríguez. At just 19 years old, he has been one of Betis's sensations this season.
His dribbling ability, explosiveness, and game reading make him one of the best promises in Spanish soccer. Now, he will be part of a Barça that looks to the future with intelligence.
Flick requested it. Deco executed it. Barça, this time, has signed thinking about winning... without losing balance.