Barcelona faces decisive weeks in the transfer market. With Hansi Flick's renewal, the sports planning has taken a clear direction, but there are still several important decisions to be made. Deco, as sporting director, has only a few days to evaluate all the options and define which ones are priorities to strengthen a squad that aims to compete at the highest level next season.
After the failed arrival of Nico Williams, Barça has financial leeway to pursue new operations. The Catalan club's main objective is to strengthen the blaugrana attack with a top-level winger, with Marcus Rashford and Luis Díaz on the list of candidates. However, they do not rule out the arrival of new faces in other positions as well, especially in defense, where Flick believes the squad needs more depth and reliable alternatives.
An option gaining momentum
One of the names that most convinces the coaching staff is Denzel Dumfries. Inter Milan's right-back has shown that he is a complete player, capable of contributing both in defense and attack. His performance in the last Champions League, where he was key in the tie against Barça, made a great impression on Flick and the club's sporting leaders.
The main attraction of Dumfries is his release clause, set at €25 million (€25 million). This is an affordable figure for the blaugrana coffers, especially considering the shortcomings the team has shown at right-back in recent seasons. However, the clause has a limit: it expires next July 31, so Deco and Laporta must make a decision in less than a month.
Atlético de Madrid showed strong interest in signing Denzel Dumfries during the transfer market, seeing the Dutch right-back as a key piece to strengthen its right flank. The physical power, offensive ability, and versatility of Inter Milan's player fit perfectly into Simeone's system. He was looking for a profile with those characteristics to give the team more depth.
A necessary addition
During the last season, Jules Koundé has established himself as an undisputed starter at right-back, but his physical wear has been evident. Héctor Fort, the natural alternative, is not yet ready to take on a leading role, and Flick has had to resort to improvised solutions such as placing Eric García in that position. The German coach's intention is to return him to the center of the defense and have a specialist on the flank.
Dumfries fits perfectly into the profile Flick is looking for: physical power, experience in major competitions, and the ability to break through in attack. Barcelona's sporting management considers the operation strategic, but they must act quickly not to miss the opportunity. With a few days ahead, Deco has in his hands the chance to strengthen one of the team's weakest areas.