Barcelona is experiencing weeks of strategic moves in its planning for the upcoming season. After the first meetings between Flick and Deco, the sporting management is working intensely. The objective is clear: to finalize signings that will strengthen the team and to move out players who aren't in the German coach's plans.
With Joan García's arrival already confirmed and Nico Williams's signing on the way, the club is focusing its efforts on restructuring the squad. Flick is seeking a more compact, competitive group that fits within financial fair play. This, evidently, means making tough decisions regarding several academy graduates and players who are part of Barça's first team.
On the way out
According to Gerard Romero, Flick has asked Deco to work on the departure of Héctor Fort and one of the five center backs in the squad. The young right back, developed at La Masia, has played a minor role this past season and hasn't convinced the German coach. In fact, the coaching staff considers the right back position covered with Koundé as the starter and Eric García as a versatile alternative.
Valencia has already shown interest in Fort, who is looking for a destination where he can get minutes and continuity to keep growing. The academy graduate's departure would allow Barça to free up a spot in the squad and adjust its wage bill to register new signings.
As for the center backs, the decision also seems clear. Christensen, who hasn't had a standout season, is the main candidate to leave the club. Despite his contract running until 2026, Barça prefers to get financial return now rather than let him leave for free later on.
Deco is already working to find him a destination, with several Premier League and Serie A teams monitoring his situation. Flick has made it clear that Ronald Araújo will stay, while Eric García is gaining ground in the squad due to his ability to play both in defense and midfield. Christensen's departure would ease the club's finances and open the door to strengthening other priority positions.
Key decisions in the new Barça
With less than a month until preseason begins, Barça is speeding up to finalize these operations as soon as possible. The departures of Fort and Christensen are part of Flick's plan to build a more balanced and competitive squad, with room for signings and young prospects who do have his trust.
Deco has work ahead. Every move will be key to ensuring that Flick's project gets off to a good start and without financial surprises.