Barça Is Already Working on Market Planning. First, they are looking to incorporate a winger or forward who can provide imbalance and goals, and give the starters a rest. Additionally, another position marked in red is the right-back, where Jules Koundé has taken on the full load of minutes without a natural replacement, an unsustainable situation in the long term.
Koundé Is the Player with the Most Minutes in the Squad. The lack of a specific right-back has forced Flick to adapt, but the management wants to solve that deficit with the arrival of a player to compete with the Frenchman.
The Copa Final and the Match Against Inter Cause a Change in Planning
However, the Copa final and the demanding first leg of the Champions League semifinals against Inter have revealed another need. In both matches, Gerard Martín was the starter at left-back due to Alejandro Balde's injury, and his performance left doubts about his readiness for this type of scenario. Although he fulfilled his role, it was noticeable that he is not yet ready to take on that responsibility in key matches.
The situation has set off alarms in the sports management. In high-demand matches, Gerard Martín's lack of experience and solidity can compromise the team. Therefore, in recent weeks, the planning has been reconsidered, and the club has decided to include the signing of a left-back in its list of priorities.
Alejandro Balde Needs Competition
From Barça's environment, they consider that Balde needs serious competition to grow and not relax, and also to have a reliable alternative in case of injury or rotation. Thus, the club is looking for a profile that combines experience, European level, and knowledge of Barça's style.
The Top Player Deco Wants
In this regard, according to 'El Nacional' and also Bild, Barça's big favorite to strengthen the left-back is Alejandro Grimaldo. The former La Masia player and current Bayer Leverkusen footballer has had a spectacular season in Germany.
Grimaldo, who left Barça without debuting in the first team, has evolved into a TOP-level player. Thus, Deco would be willing to present an offer of about 30 million euros to secure his services. His arrival would mean a high-level reinforcement and direct competition for Alejandro Balde, thus raising the team's level.