FC Barcelona continues to bet on youth. Pau Cubarsí has established himself as one of the great gems of La Masia. His growth has been meteoric, earning a spot in the first team's defense.
However, the club knows it needs to strengthen the defense. With players like Íñigo Martínez in the final stretch of his career and the possible departure of Araújo, finding new defensive talent is a priority. Now, the management has a new name on the list, a defender with a promising future arrives from England.
Barça's defense needs reinforcements
Barça continues to trust its youth academy. Players like Gavi, Lamine Yamal, and Cubarsí have shown that young talent is key for the team. But the club also needs to look at the market, the defense needs renewal.
Íñigo Martínez, at 33 years old, is not a long-term solution. Ronald Araújo remains an essential piece, but his release clause of 65 million keeps him on the radar of several teams. In this scenario, the management led by Deco is already exploring options, and one of them is in the Premier League.
The new defensive gem
One of the names that has emerged strongly is Ayden Heaven. He plays for Arsenal and is considered one of the brightest prospects in English football.
The young defender, born in 2006, has stood out for his tactical intelligence and ability to play in various positions. He can act as a central defender, but he has also shown reliability as a full-back. He recently debuted with Arsenal's first team, showing a great level, but his future in London is not assured.
Ayden Heaven's contract ends in 2025, and so far, he hasn't renewed with Arsenal. This makes him an interesting opportunity for several clubs. Barça is not the only team interested; from England, Manchester United is also closely following his development.
If he doesn't renew soon, Arsenal might be forced to sell him to avoid losing him for free. This opens a door for Barça to attempt his signing at a reasonable price.
A reinforcement with great projection
Ayden Heaven's profile fits perfectly at Barça. His playing style is similar to Pau Cubarsí's: intelligent, with good ball distribution and great anticipation ability.
His arrival would increase competition in the defense. Additionally, it would allow for a smoother transition in case Araújo or Íñigo Martínez leave the team. Hansi Flick has already given his approval to the operation, considering that Heaven has the necessary talent to succeed at Camp Nou.
Barça is keeping an eye on the young central defender's moves. Everything will depend on his decision. If he chooses not to renew with Arsenal, his signing will be a realistic option.
The blaugrana management knows it won't be easy. But the opportunity to add a defender with projection at a reduced cost is too good to ignore.
In the coming weeks, it will be known whether Heaven decides to make the leap to Spain or continue his career in England. What is clear is that Barça continues to build its defense of the future.