FC Barcelona is preparing for a critical summer transfer window, and reinforcing the right-back position will be of great importance.
They want a player who can challenge Jules Kounde for that position, as young player Hector Fort does not fully convince coach Hansi Flick.
While the sporting department and coaching staff both had settled on a target, which they perceived to be a clear leading candidate, the interest from other clubs in the Premier League made it necessary for Barcelona to explore alternative options to augment their defense.
The main target was Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong, a 24-year-old Dutch star who offers pace and dynamism.
However, according to Diario Sport, Frimpong has lost momentum due to strong interest from Liverpool and Aston Villa.
Subsequently, Barcelona turned to a list of three alternatives: Vanderson from AS Monaco, Dodo from Fiorentina, and Marc Pubill from UD Almeria.
These alternatives are relatively cheaper than Frimpong, and the possibility of negotiating easier terms exists (especially considering Liverpool’s strong intent to secure Frimpong).
Vanderson, a Brazilian long coveted by sporting director Deco, is an excellent option, but his current contract with Monaco until 2028 might significantly complicate his transfer fee.
Dodo, another Brazilian, is a more economical option because Fiorentina would accept a fee closer to €25 million.
Pubill is a young Spaniard who was targeted last summer, but financial fair play was unable to push the deal over the line.
He is still interested in the move, which makes him an available option.
Each option would present unique attributes to challenge Kounde in the main squad.
With Frimpong now looking unlikely, the next few weeks for Barcelona will be important regarding how to navigate the financial trading restrictions while also finding an experienced right-back.
It is difficult to predict which possible available alternative the Catalans will go after, but their ability to adapt could help them have a strong defensive group for the future.
A savvy pickup here could establish the next chapter of Barcelona’s historic dominance.
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