Hansi Flick wants key defender to join Barcelona this January

Barcelona is gearing up for a decisive January transfer window as head coach Hansi Flick demands reinforcements to bolster the team’s defensive line.

The current season has exposed vulnerabilities in the backline, particularly after the departure of key defenders, leaving the squad short of depth and consistency in defense.

Recognizing the urgent need to strengthen the center-back position, Hansi Flick has put forward a clear priority to the club’s management: secure a high-quality, left-footed center-back who can provide solidity, leadership, and excellent ball distribution.

This signing is seen as a cornerstone for Barcelona’s defensive project moving forward, as the coach believes the right addition in this role could transform the team’s balance and protect a sometimes fragile defense.

The player Hansi Flick has set his sights on is Nico Schlotterbeck, the German international currently playing for Borussia Dortmund, as reported by Fichajes.

Nico Schlotterbeck will become a free agent next summer, following his decision not to renew with Dortmund, which has intensified interest from top European clubs.

Known for his commanding physical presence, tactical intelligence, and clean passing ability, Schlotterbeck offers a rare combination of skills that align perfectly with Flick’s vision for the team.

The German coach’s personal knowledge and confidence in Schlotterbeck’s abilities have made the defender a top priority for Barcelona, with the club exploring financial strategies to secure his signature despite a competitive market and their constrained wage budget.

Borussia Dortmund is keen on finalizing Schlotterbeck’s sale this winter to avoid losing him for free in 2026, which works to Barcelona’s advantage as they position themselves as strong contenders.

The center-back’s experience in European competitions and recent performances for the German national team strengthen his appeal as someone capable of anchoring Barcelona’s defense for the coming decade.

While the final decision and timing remain uncertain, Schlotterbeck’s potential arrival in January would signal a decisive step in Barcelona’s efforts to rebuild a deeply reliable and dynamic defensive unit under Hansi Flick’s stewardship.