After completing the signing of Gabriel Jesus, FC Barcelona sporting director Deco is now focusing their efforts on bringing in a left-footed centre-back during the final stretch of the transfer window, reports SPORT.
The arrival of a left-footed centre-back has been one of the club’s major debates throughout the summer. A few months ago, signing one appeared to be a major priority for the season.
There was even a player who seemed close to joining: Alessandro Bastoni. However, the sporting department eventually took a different approach.
Much of that was due to Hansi Flick’s position. The German was convinced by what Gerard Martin offers in the position, while there were also doubts about whether Bastoni would fit his tactical approach.
Departures affect plans
However, things changed after Ronald Araujo left the club, joining Liverpool on a season-long loan deal.
Another factor is Alvaro Cortes. The academy defender began pre-season with the first team and appeared set to remain in Flick’s squad, but he opted to leave a few days ago.
Alvaro Cortes is set to join Royal Antwerp. (Picture credit: Instagram/@alvaarocortes)
There were two main reasons behind the academy graduate’s exit. Cortes believed he would struggle to get enough opportunities, and he was also aware that the Catalans were exploring the market for a left-footed centre-back.
That search is now entering its most intense phase. Barça appear to be looking for a young defender with significant room for development, rather than simply a short-term solution.
Barcelona have completed the agreement for the signing of Mikael Baza, a 16-year-old centre-back from Hamburg, today. But his arrival does not change the club’s plans for the first team, as he will be a part of the youth setup.
Barcelona like Ruud Nijstad
For the senior squad, Ruud Nijstad, 18, is one of the players Barcelona particularly like. The Dutchman is a towering left-footed centre-back, standing 1.95 metres tall, who has made a rapid breakthrough into Twente’s first team.
Ruud Nijstad is well-liked at Barcelona. (Photo by Mateo Villalba Sanchez/Getty Images for DFB)
Nijstad fits the profile of a modern defender who is comfortable building play from the back, although he remains at a very early stage of his career.
Barcelona’s interest in Nijstad is not new. Director Deco and head of scouting Joao Amaral have travelled twice to meet with the player’s representatives, underlining how seriously the sporting department views his potential.
Barça see him as a player with good physical and technical qualities and considerable room for growth despite his age.
With the transfer window nearing an end, Deco’s priority is clear: find a young left-footed centre-back who can strengthen Flick’s options without compromising the club’s long-term plans.