Deco has already designed the transfer strategy for the next market. The club has two clear priorities: to strengthen the left wing with a high-level player and to sign a right-back who can compete with Koundé. Regarding the winger position, the top favorite is Luis Díaz, current Liverpool player and one of the most unbalancing pieces in the Premier League.
Besides the winger, Barça also needs to strengthen the right-back. Jules Koundé is the starter, but his high number of minutes played is causing concern among the coaching staff.
Flick Considers a Right-Back Reinforcement Urgent
At Barça there is consensus that the most urgent position to strengthen is the left wing. Joan Laporta wants to make a major signing in that position to provide the team with more offensive power. Luis Díaz is the most liked name, but his signing won't be easy due to his high price and competition from others.
Meanwhile, Hansi Flick has also made it clear that signing a right-back is essential. The German coach believes the team needs a real alternative for Koundé, who is currently the player with the most minutes in the squad. Although Flick understands the importance of signing a winger, he doesn't want the need for a right-back to be sidelined.
Manchester City Joins Barça and Liverpool in the Bid
Barça already has a name on the list to strengthen the right-back, but it's not the only club interested. According to "El Nacional," the player most liked by the blaugrana sports management has also attracted the interest of Liverpool. Arne Slot sees him as an ideal option to strengthen his defense following the departure of Alexander Arnold.
Additionally, in recent days a new competitor has emerged in the race for his signing: Pep Guardiola's Manchester City. The Catalan coach also wants this right-back, which further complicates the operation for Barça. With two of the most economically powerful teams in European soccer in the bid, the blaugrana club will have to move quickly.
Andrei Ratiu, a Bargain
The player in question is Andrei Ratiu, right-back for Rayo Vallecano. With an offensive profile and great range, Ratiu has caught the attention of several elite clubs. His clause is 25 million, a figure that Barça will try to negotiate down, but Rayo has no intention of reducing.
The interest from Liverpool and Manchester City further complicates Barça's chances of closing his signing. However, the need to find a replacement for Koundé could lead the Catalan club to make a financial effort.