Barcelona are re-evaluating their central defender targets as a move for Alessandro Bastoni appears increasingly improbable. New manager Hansi Flick has voiced concerns regarding the Inter Milan and Italy player, prompting sporting director Deco to explore alternative candidates.
Flick insists that any new signing must seamlessly integrate into his high-pressing system. While Bastoni doesn’t meet Flick’s stringent criteria, FC Porto’s Jakub Kiwior is reportedly under consideration. Matteo Moretto, cited by Sport, indicates that the Polish defender has been extensively scouted in recent weeks and months.
Kiwior fits Barcelona’s desired profile for a left-sided centre-back. As a former Arsenal player, he represents a more budget-friendly option than Bastoni, making him a potentially more appealing choice for Deco. Deco faces the challenge of striking a balance this summer, with multiple signings needed to strengthen Flick’s squad.
Barcelona’s Current Priority: New Striker
At present, Barcelona views Kiwior favorably, but no concrete steps have been taken. Deco and his team are primarily focused on securing a replacement for Robert Lewandowski, whose departure was confirmed last weekend.
The club’s intention is to allocate the majority of their transfer budget to acquiring a new number nine. Julian Alvarez, Joao Pedro, and Harry Kane are reportedly at the top of their shortlist. Once the striker search is finalized, Barcelona will shift its attention to the defender market, at which point a definitive decision regarding Kiwior will be made.
The upcoming transfer window promises to be an interesting one for Barcelona. Flick is determined to build a squad capable of challenging for the Champions League, as the Catalan giants aim to win the prestigious competition for the first time since 2015.
