La Liga
Pau Cubarsí could have a new partner in defense in the upcoming transfer market of FC Barcelona. Deco has Arthur Dias on his agenda, a 19-year-old left-footed center-back from Athletico Paranaense, as a possible reinforcement for January. The competition from several Premier League clubs threatens to raise the cost of an operation that could reach 30 million euros.
The need to incorporate another defender has gained importance following the physical problems suffered by several Hansi Flick players. The match against Betis ended with discomfort for Gerard Martín, in addition to the injuries of Eric García and Jules Koundé, complicating the available alternatives in the center of the defense.
This situation reinforces Deco's intention to bring in a center-back who can directly compete for a place alongside Cubarsí. The priority would be to find a left-footed player that allows Martín to regain his usual position when necessary.
One of the most favored names is Arthur Dias, a 19-year-old Athletico Paranaense defender whose contract runs until December 2028.
His addition will not be easy. Tottenham, Newcastle, Nottingham Forest, and Brentford are among the English teams interested in the defender. According to reports published in September, Tottenham had submitted an offer close to 21 million euros, which was rejected by the Brazilian club.
Athletico Paranaense would be asking for around 30 million euros to negotiate his departure, an amount that would require Barcelona to carefully study the economic viability of the signing.
Deco's intention would be to advance negotiations before January to prevent English competition from further raising economic demands. Meanwhile, Hansi Flick will continue to rely on Pau Cubarsí and Gerard Martín as his central defensive pair, provided both are available, awaiting a final decision on Arthur Dias.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El Barça busca el socio ideal para Pau Cubarsí
