Barcelona director looking for a last-minute signing with specific profile in mind

The departure of Inigo Martinez came as a shock for Barcelona fans, for the veteran defender had established himself as a pivotal player in Hansi Flick’s project.

Indeed, the Basque centre-back was a key cog in Barça’s successful season last time out, with his understanding of the offside trap and the high defensive line, coupled with his leadership, making him invaluable.

So, his sudden departure to Al Nassr has left a hole in the squad, not only in terms of his experience and leadership, but also the fact that Barcelona now do not have a left-footed centre-back.

Deco looking for last-minute solutions in the market

As such, SPORT reports that Barcelona sporting director Deco’s idea is to look in the market for a left-footed centre-back with potential, under the age of 23, so that he could be registered with the reserve team.

The plan is to bring in a young defender at an affordable price, who could be registered with Barça Atletic and join the dynamics of the first team under Flick.

As per the report, there are already candidates on the table and negotiations underway as we enter the final stretch of the summer transfer window.

Initially, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick wanted a versatile defender who could play as a centre-back and a full-back, but the club’s Fair Play situation severely limits their options.

So, the idea of using Gerard Martin at centre-back and promoting Jofre Torrents from within the squad to operate at left-back is being fast-tracked.

At the same time, though, Deco continues to explore the idea of the possible arrival of a young left-footed centre-back before the window closes.

Whether the plan bears any fruit or Flick has to make do with the current options remains to be seen.