A Ligue 1 defensive prodigy is turning heads at FC Barcelona, as Deco eyes a bold move to bolster the Blaugrana’s backline.
The unexpected departure of Iñigo Martínez to Saudi Arabia has left a void in the center-back rotation, prompting sporting director Deco to prioritize a left-footed defender with progressive attributes.
As the club balances youth development with immediate needs, scouts have fanned out across Europe, compiling dossiers on promising talents who can inject long-term stability.
In a league known for unearthing gems, one precocious performer has caught Barcelona’s eye, blending raw physicality with technical poise.
That sensation is Tylel Tati, the 17-year-old Nantes center-back who’s exploding onto the Ligue 1 scene, per Diario Sport.
Debuting professionally this summer after arriving from Clairfontaine in 2023, Tati has earned a starting spot, signing a pro deal until 2028.
At 6’4″ with explosive speed and aerial dominance, the left-footed French prodigy excels in ball progression, making him a perfect fit for Flick’s build-from-the-back system.
His composure under pressure and rapid adaptation have drawn comparisons to a young Raphael Varane, alerting top clubs from the Premier League to Serie A.
Barcelona’s interest stems from Tati’s alignment with their blueprint: a versatile left-sided defender who can contribute now and evolve into a leader.
Currently valued at €3 million, his price tag could soar to €20-30 million by summer 2026, especially with Nantes keen to cash in on their diamond in the rough.
Tati, who turns 18 in January, prefers to finish the season in Nantes to solidify his pro credentials before entertaining moves.
Deco’s rapport with Portuguese sides like Sporting Lisbon—evident in past deals like Francisco Trincão’s sale—positions Barcelona well for similar negotiations, though Tati’s French roots add a layer of competition.
While established names like Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck and Sporting’s Gonçalo Inácio (both out of contract in 2027) remain on the radar, Tati represents a bolder, high-upside gamble.
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