Barça is looking for a new defensive star

Deco has four defenders on the list to complement Pau Cubarsí

Mario Roldán Martínez | 20 Jul 2026 | 15.30
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Bastoni, Inter Milan's defender, is one of Deco's favorites / Instagram
Bastoni, Inter Milan's defender, is one of Deco's favorites / Instagram

La Liga
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Elche Barcelona
23/08/26 21:30:00
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One of FC Barcelona's main objectives in the transfer market is to incorporate a top-level center-back to raise the team's competitive ceiling under Hansi Flick. While the squad already has one of European football's great gems in Pau Cubarsí, the club deems it a priority to find a reliable partner to solidify a defense capable of competing for all titles.

With this idea on the table, Barcelona is monitoring four top-level names: Alessandro Bastoni, Nico Schlotterbeck, Josko Gvardiol, and Ousmane Diomandé. These players have different profiles but share common traits: youth, leadership, and the ability to lead a defense for many years.

Barcelona Analyzes Bastoni and Schlotterbeck as Top-Level Options

Barcelona's primary target remains Bastoni. The Italian international, 27, is one of the best center-backs on the continent and a key player for Inter Milan. With his left-footed play, exceptional ball distribution, and tactical acumen, he would fit perfectly into Flick's desired style of play.

His current market value stands at €65 million, and he has a long-term contract with the Italian club, making any negotiation demand a significant investment. The economic challenge makes this operation one of the most complex for Barcelona, although it remains one of the most highly regarded options by the sporting direction.

Another player highly favored is Schlotterbeck. The 26-year-old German international has established himself as one of Borussia Dortmund's pillars due to his physical strength, defensive aggressiveness, and ability to build play from the back.

Having a contract until 2031 and valued at €50-60 million, his valuation is more manageable compared to other candidates. Furthermore, his familiarity with German football could ease his adaptation to Flick's demands, adding a favorable aspect to his profile.

Gvardiol and Ousmane Diomandé Complete Barcelona's List

Among the club's desires is Gvardiol, recognized for years as one of the world's best young defenders. The 24-year-old Croatian standout for his speed, physicality, excellent ball distribution, and versatility to play both as a center-back and left-back.

However, his contractual situation makes any operation extremely challenging. Manchester City paid around €90 million for his signing, and his market value continues to rise, positioning him among the highest in the world in his position. Barcelona understands that convincing the English club would require a very difficult sum.

The youngest alternative on the list is Ousmane Diomandé. The 22-year-old Ivorian international has emerged as one of Europe's most promising center-backs thanks to his performances at Sporting de Portugal.

With an €80 million release clause, reports suggest an offer near €60 million could initiate negotiations. His physical attributes, speed, and room for growth make him an attractive prospect for any top European club.

Barcelona Aims to Enhance Defensive Quality

Barcelona's intention is to surround Pau Cubarsí with an established center-back to form one of the continent's best defensive duos over the next decade. Alongside Ronald Araújo, Andreas Christensen, Gerard Martín, and Eric Garcia offering options, the arrival of another top-level defender would significantly raise the squad's quality.

The club is aware that any of these operations will rely on its ability to generate income and improve the salary margin in future markets. However, players like Bastoni, Schlotterbeck, Gvardiol, and Ousmane Diomandé embody the profile sought by the entity to strengthen Hansi Flick's new project.

Potential unexpected moves may still occur, but the roadmap is set. Barcelona aims to bolster the defense with a star player who can accompany Cubarsí for years to come, establishing the Barça defense as one of the most solid in European football.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El Barça busca una nueva estrella defensiva