Barcelona Open Door to a Surprise Centre-Back Signing

Barcelona could still pull off a surprise centre-back signing before the transfer window shuts. According to SPORT, sporting director Deco has reopened the possibility of adding a central defender, with captain Ronald Araújo’s reported move to Liverpool changing the calculus for Hansi Flick and roughly three weeks of the window remaining.

The Catalans spent much of the summer chasing left-footed defenders before switching their focus to the attack. Araújo’s reported exit would free up significant salary space and leave a gap at the heart of the back line. Without the Uruguayan, Flick can call on Pau Cubarsí, Andreas Christensen, Gerard Martín and Eric García in the middle, with Jules Koundé able to step inside when needed.

Why a centre-back signing makes sense now

There is a complication: Flick also views Eric García as cover at full-back behind Koundé, which could thin out his central options. SPORT mention that La Masia’s Álvaro Cortés is in the conversation and could be promoted, though the coach would prefer a more experienced head. The report adds that Barcelona will only move if the finances are right and the player can genuinely compete for a starting spot — with Cristian Romero and Aymeric Laporte among the names the club admire.

For now, nothing is imminent. But if Araújo’s reported departure is confirmed in the coming days, Barcelona’s defensive plans could shift quickly before the window closes.