Hansi Flick demands 2 key signings for Barcelona

With injuries to Jules Koundé and Alejandro Balde exposing vulnerabilities and Pau Cubarsí shouldering heavy responsibility at just 18, the German coach wants immediate depth and long-term quality.

His insistence stems from Barcelona’s high-line system needing ball-playing defenders who can progress play under pressure, and Deco is already working to identify profiles that fit the budget while addressing these gaps.

The two candidates in Flick’s sights are Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni and Tottenham Hotspur’s Micky van de Ven, with initial scouting reports highlighting their suitability for La Liga’s tactical demands, as reported by Fichajes.

Bastoni, the 26-year-old Italian international, brings elite passing range, vision from deep, and leadership honed in Serie A title wins and Champions League runs.

Van de Ven, the 24-year-old Dutch powerhouse, offers explosive pace, aerial dominance, and composure on the ball, having established himself as a Premier League standout. Both are seen as attainable, with structured deals potentially in the €40-60m range combined.

For Barcelona, this double swoop would transform a defence that has conceded unnecessarily from set-pieces and transitions.

Flick’s vision involves pairing one of these arrivals with Cubarsí to form a youthful, progressive central duo, freeing up Koundé for right-back duties and reducing injury risks through better rotation.

The focus on left-footed specialists aligns with Barcelona’s possession philosophy, ensuring smooth build-up and width from the back.

Financially, the club plans to fund the moves through sales like Ronald Araújó, whose potential transfer-listing could generate funds.

Flick’s demands underscore his proactive approach since arriving, prioritising positions over stars.

If executed, these signings could solidify Barcelona’s title challenge and European push, blending elite experience with La Masia elegance for a more resilient unit at Camp Nou.