Barcelona is edging closer to an important defensive addition, as a deal is virtually done with one of the most in-demand center-backs on a free transfer this summer.
According to Diario Sport, Barcelona have moved ahead of several competitors in Europe to bring the defensive player in, who has already confirmed he will leave his current club.
“Quite some time ago, I made the decision not to stay here. As always, I’ve been upfront about it, and the club is already well aware,” the defender said, spelling out any ambiguity in his availability.
Hansi Flick, the team’s coach, has given the signing his approval, and Flick says that the player fits like a glove in his tactics.
The defender’s strength in the air, tactical smartness, and command of defensive lines is a perfect mirror of Barcelona’s style of play.
While nothing is official, the discussions are said to be quite advanced, with formalities the last thing remaining.
The player we are referring to is Jonathan Tah, the German international, whose current contract with Bayer Leverkusen expires this summer.
The 28-year-old has opted for Barcelona, despite Bayern Munich and Premier League teams making lucrative proposals, demonstrating their faith in the project under Flick.
Still, the deal depends on Barcelona selling off at least one center-back to comply with financial regulations.
Jonathan Tah would be a good signing for Barcelona, as it would solve their defensive needs without making a transfer commitment.
He offers physicality and experience to a backline that has needed consistency.
The agent involved, Pini Zahavi, seems to be facilitating the discussions, and it looks to be that he could be the first big signing of Flick’s reign – if Barcelona can free up the space on the squad over the next few weeks.
Want to get the latest Barcelona news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
