Next summer is shaping up to be one of the most important in Barcelona’s recent history.
The Catalans have largely been brilliant under Hansi Flick, and if they’re able to keep up the pace for the majority of the season, a league title might not be out of reach for them.
That would be a sensational turnaround from even last season when one considers the ease with which Real Madrid secured another Spanish top-flight gong.
There is always room for improvement and squad strengthening of course, and to that end, finding a left winger to complement the players Barca have in situ is a must. It would also free up Raphinha to play that more central role which he seems completely suited to.
So who are the top three targets that Barcelona might consider when the summer window opens for business...
Nico Williams
Denmark v Spain - UEFA Nations League 2024/25 League A Group A4 Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images
Nico Williams’ star has continued to ascend and though Barca missed out on him post-Euro 2024, there’s some certainty to them trying again next summer.
He’s a Spanish league stalwart, evidently has an incredible relationship with Lamine Yamal particularly but also with Barca’s other Spanish players, has a skill set that would suit the system that Hansi Flick wants to play and won’t cost the earth unless Athletic Club look to renegotiate his release clause.
Los Leones do have an emotional hold over him, but the temptation to line up for the Blaugranes in 2025/26 might just be too great for the player who would slot in like hand in glove.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
SSC Napoli v AS Roma - Serie A Enilive Photo by Giuseppe Maffia/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Still only 23 years of age, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is once again showing why it was him and not Victor Osimhen that was the architect of Napoli’s brilliant Serie A title win the season before last.
He’s been reborn under Antonio Conte and has contributed five goals and two assists for the Partenopei already.
A tricky customer, the Georgian’s incessant work-rate is one of the stand-out aspects of his game, and why Hansi Flick is unlikely to hesitate if the opportunity to sign him arose.
Rafael Leao
AC Milan v Juventus - Serie A Photo by Diego Puletto/AC Milan via Getty Images
A big name but often not a big game player, Rafael Leao can be a little bit hit and miss. For a player of his evident quality that’s a criminal waste of his talent.
He certainly has the beating of his man when his head is in the game, and three goals as well as four assists in 11 games speaks of an important component of the current Milan side.
There’s no real doubting his talent but he lacks the consistency to be the type of player Barca need.
Who do you think is the best option on the left win for Barcelona? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!