With the end of the season in sight, FC Barcelona is already working on several strategic moves. One of them is focused on the left-back position, an area weakened by injuries and lack of alternatives.
Alejandro Balde's recovery is progressing, but the club considers it necessary to sign an experienced and competitive player. Hansi Flick has identified that side as a priority and has given clear instructions to Deco.
The new coach demands depth and immediate performance
Flick is not looking for promises or long-term projects; he wants profiles that work from the first training session. The demanding schedule, with Champions, League, and Cup, requires having two starters per position.
On the left, beyond Balde, Barça doesn't have a reliable substitute. Therefore, the sports management has already activated contacts with an elite footballer who fits all the club's parameters.
The name being considered doesn't need adaptation. He knows the club, the city, and the pressure of Camp Nou perfectly. He has been trained at La Masia and has grown in top-level competitions like the Bundesliga and the Champions League.
The player has particularly excelled this season, both in his physical display and his offensive contribution. At 29 years old, he is living his best moment and is ready to take an emotional and professional leap.
Deco takes the lead and accelerates contacts
The sports management, aware of the financial context, has designed a calculated and viable operation. The first conversations between the parties have already taken place.
Although the footballer has a contract until 2027, his entourage wouldn't look unfavorably on a departure if it means returning home. The predisposition is total, and the desire to return is real.
Beyond his performance, his return would have strong symbolic value for the fans and the locker room. His departure back in the day left a bittersweet taste. Now, more mature, he returns as a well-established and recognized player.
The coaching staff believes he can coexist perfectly with Balde, without hindering his growth. He would be an immediate, versatile solution aligned with the club's formative values.
A possible signing, but conditioned by the salary margin
His current club won't let him leave easily. The minimum price set is 35 million euros. For Barça, that figure requires economic maneuvers: salary adjustments or some strategic sale.
However, the club believes the effort is worth it. The management believes this reinforcement can make a difference in key matches. Additionally, it would bring leadership and personality to the locker room.
It's not just defense. This full-back provides goals, assists, and a very unusual precision on set pieces. He has scored in important matches and has shown he can decide games with his striking ability.
That offensive capability makes him a unique profile, highly sought after by major teams in Europe. But Barça has taken the lead and has the strongest argument: returning home.
After several seasons shining in Germany, Grimaldo is ready to return to Barça. His experience at Bayer Leverkusen, his impact in Europe, and his training at La Masia make him an ideal signing.
If the economic conditions are met, the return will be a reality. Flick has expressly requested it. Deco has marked it in red, and Grimaldo, the prodigal son, is ready to return to Camp Nou.