Barcelona eye a bargain €20m swoop for a reliable Atletico Madrid defender to add depth and quality to their defensive options.
Barcelona sporting director Deco has entered full pursuit mode, zeroing in on one of Atletico Madrid’s most promising defensive assets as a vital piece for Hansi Flick’s relentless pressing machine.
The Blaugrana, balancing La Liga dominance with Champions League ambitions under tight financial scrutiny, see the versatile young talent as the ideal addition to inject dynamism and depth into their backline.
Fichajes reports Deco’s enthusiasm has hit new heights, with preliminary feelers extended to test the waters for a potential transfer that could spark intense rivalry between the Spanish giants and reshape Barcelona’s defensive hierarchy.
That defender is Marc Pubill, the 22-year-old Spanish right-back sensation who has rapidly emerged as Diego Simeone’s “new jewel” at Atletico after a stunning January switch.
Pubill’s blistering pace, pinpoint crossing, and defensive tenacity—honed in La Liga2 and now shining in the capital—have made him a mainstay in Simeone’s rigid setup, with three assists already this term despite limited starts.
Valued at €20m and tied until 2029, his evolution into a complete wing-back aligns seamlessly with Flick’s high-intensity full-back demands, offering an upgrade over inconsistent options like Jules Koundé in wider roles.
Deco’s fixation traces to Pubill’s elite metrics: top percentile in dribbles completed, key passes from deep, and tackles per 90, blending La Masia-like technical polish with Atletico Madrid steel.
Simeone, however, views him as untouchable amid right-back shortages post-Nahuel Molina’s dip.
Barça’s path hinges on creativity: player exchanges involving fringe talents like Ferran Torres, or funds from Saudi-bound veterans, could bridge the €25-30m gap that Atletico Madrid demands.
Pubill’s whispers of admiration for Flick’s project—tied to his Catalan roots—bolster Deco’s pitch, though Colchoneros loyalty runs deep.
This chase embodies Barcelona’s post-Laporta aggression, targeting youth over splurges. Success would fortify Flick’s quadruple bid; a miss leaves gaps exposed in a high-stakes season.
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