Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, is already planning ahead for the summer transfer window, with a particular focus on strengthening both full-back positions.
According to a recent report by Joaquim Piera in SPORT, while Deco is gathering information on potential targets, Barcelona will not make any major signings during the winter transfer window unless something unexpected occurs.
This means that if all goes as planned, Barcelona will enter their second consecutive transfer window without reinforcing their full-back roles.
Barcelona’s bet
Barcelona are betting on Hector Fort for the season. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)
For now, the club has placed their trust in Hector Fort and Gerard Martin to fill in the gaps at full-back. This decision, however, comes with significant risks.
The club’s lack of movement in the full-back market for the past two windows reflects a broader issue: their budget for signings is currently stretched thin, and unless there is a dramatic shift, this trend is likely to continue.
Despite this, Deco is not idle. He is actively tracking various full-back options for next summer, preparing to make moves once the transfer window opens.
The profiles of the players being considered are varied, as Barcelona’s ability to invest in new signings is still uncertain.
Who are they monitoring
Marc Pubill is being monitored. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images)
One of the right-back targets is Marc Pubill from Almeria, an Olympic champion who was close to joining Barcelona last summer.
Pubill is seen as a player with similar qualities to Ivan Fresneda, a promising talent who could add depth to the right side of the defence.
Another right-back being monitored is Devyne Rensch from Ajax, whose contract expires at the end of this season. Rensch could be a potential free transfer, making him an attractive option for Barcelona if they are limited in their financial options.
Vanderson, the Brazilian full-back from Monaco, is also on Deco’s radar. Having impressed at Monaco this season, he was a player Deco recommended to the club when he was an advisor to Joan Laporta.
What about left-back?
Signing Alphonso Davies is quite difficult. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)
On the left side, the club has shown interest in Alphonso Davies, although his high price tag makes him a difficult target.
Despite this, Barcelona remain attentive to the possibility of signing him, especially with Hansi Flick’s potential influence.
Another left-back being considered is Caio Henrique from Monaco, whose experience and maturity could provide valuable balance to Barcelona’s youthful squad.
Henrique’s possible departure from Ligue 1 could give Barcelona an opportunity to secure a reliable and seasoned full-back for the left side of their defence.
With these potential targets in mind, Deco’s efforts to strengthen Barcelona’s full-back positions could set the stage for a busy summer transfer window, where the club will aim to make key additions without stretching their budget too far.