Although FC Barcelona celebrates a season full of sporting successes, the transfer market won't give any respite. The sports management and Hansi Flick agree that it's necessary to continue reshaping the squad. For that, departures must occur first to ease the salary cap.
The defense is one of the areas where more movements are expected. The confirmed departure of Andreas Christensen will be the first step, but it won't be the only one. With the expected arrival of Jonathan Tah, another center-back will have to leave the club.
The Dilemma Between Eric García and Araújo
Everything pointed to Eric García being one of the sacrifices this summer. For months, his prominence had been scarce, and he seemed to have his bags packed. However, his situation has taken an unexpected turn in recent weeks.
Hansi Flick has started to trust him as a defensive wildcard. He has used him as a center-back, pivot, and right-back, proving to be a versatile and reliable option. His growing performance complicates the final decision.
Real Sociedad Enters the Scene
In this context, Real Sociedad has once again shown firm interest in Eric García. After the departure of Imanol Alguacil, the club from San Sebastián seeks to strengthen its defense for a new project. They are willing to make a significant effort to achieve it.
According to sources close to the operation, Real would be willing to offer their two best current players to facilitate the signing. A move that could unlock other operations that Barça has in mind for this summer.
The Basque club has put forward the names of Jon Aramburu and Takefusa Kubo as part of the operation. Two top-level footballers, established in LaLiga, with profiles that perfectly fit Barça's needs.
Aramburu could strengthen a right-back position that has caused problems all season. Meanwhile, Kubo would bring imbalance and depth to an attack that needs reliable alternatives on the wings.
Araújo's Future in the Air
Meanwhile, Ronald Araújo sees his prominence at Barça progressively diminishing. Flick has made it clear that he seeks center-backs who better adapt to his idea of positional play and clean build-up from the back. The Uruguayan doesn't quite fit in.
In a market in need of significant sales, it is not ruled out that Araújo could be one of the sacrifices if a great offer comes in. Everything will depend on how the market evolves and the decisions made in the coming weeks.
The Catalan defender has signed his best season since returning to Camp Nou. He has already accumulated almost 1,600 minutes spread over 37 matches, with three goals and two assists to his name. Flick values his tactical intelligence, versatility, and ability to adapt to different roles.
Real Sociedad's offer confirms his growing prestige and could open an unexpected scenario for Barça. Exchanging Eric for two strategic pieces like Aramburu and Kubo could be the move that completely alters Barça's plans.