Barcelona has initiated steps to acquire a new defender from La Liga, aiming to bolster its squad for the upcoming season. This move follows the departure of Ronald Araujo to Liverpool, which has prompted the club to re-evaluate its defensive strategy.
Sporting director Deco is reportedly exploring options to reinforce the central defence. The club is balancing its defensive requirements with other priorities in the transfer market.
Interest in Natan Confirmed
The agent for Real Betis defender Natan, Andre Cury, confirmed Barcelona’s interest in his client. In an interview, Cury stated that while he had not been directly contacted by Barcelona, the club had approached the Betis board. He indicated that Natan might be allowed to leave if an offer is made.
This confirmation highlights Barcelona’s search for a replacement for Araujo, who is now with Liverpool. Betis is also in a position where selling Natan, who has a contract until 2030, could help the club manage its finances. Real Madrid had previously shown interest in the Brazilian defender, but that deal did not proceed.
Player Departures and Squad Adjustments
Ronald Araujo’s move to Liverpool on a season-long loan has created a vacancy in Barcelona’s defence. Araujo had a limited role in recent seasons, making 11 starts during the team’s La Liga title defence.
Beyond Araujo, other players could also leave Barcelona before the transfer window closes. Ferran Torres is one such player, with reports suggesting he has reached an agreement with Paris Saint-Germain. Cashing in on Ferran would provide much-needed funds, but it would also leave the club without a natural first-team centre forward, potentially requiring new attacking acquisitions.
Marc Casadó, a product of La Masia, is another player whose future at Barcelona is uncertain. After a knee injury in March 2025, he fell down the pecking order. He did not travel with the team for their preseason tournament in Italy and is currently training separately. Casadó has been linked with a move to Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal, and coach Hansi Flick has acknowledged that “decisions have to be made” regarding player movements.
Héctor Fort, another La Masia graduate, could also be on his way out. After returning from a loan spell at Elche, he has not secured a place in Flick’s squad. With Jules Koundé expected to be the primary right-back and João Cancelo anticipated to re-sign, coupled with the emergence of Xavi Espart, there appears to be less need for Fort’s services at Camp Nou. He has been linked with several European clubs, including Premier League side Fulham, though recent reports suggest he is reluctant to leave Barcelona.
Defensive Reinforcement Considerations
Barcelona’s defensive situation remains a key focus for Hansi Flick and the sporting department. While the club initially sought left-footed defenders, Araujo’s departure has shifted priorities. Barcelona is open to signing another central defender if a suitable opportunity arises in the remaining weeks of the transfer window.
Araujo’s exit would free up significant salary space, offering the club more flexibility for new signings. Without him, Flick’s primary centre-back options would include Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Martin, Andreas Christensen, and Eric Garcia, with Jules Kounde also capable of playing in that position. However, Eric Garcia is also seen as a potential full-back cover, which could lead to a desire for greater depth in central defence.
Alvaro Cortes, a defender from La Masia, has impressed the coaching staff and could be promoted to a larger role if the club decides against an external signing. However, Flick reportedly prefers a more experienced option. Any new centre-back signing will depend on favourable financial conditions and the player’s ability to genuinely compete for a starting position.
Source: goal.com