FC Barcelona is preparing significant changes in its defense for the next season. The sports management wants to strengthen both flanks with reliable signings. Hansi Flick's demand has been clear since his arrival.
On the right, Jules Koundé has been the most used throughout the season, accumulating more than 4,000 minutes, being a key piece in every line-up. Meanwhile, Héctor Fort has been relegated to a very secondary role.
Héctor Fort hasn't had options
The young academy player has worked consistently, but he has barely had opportunities. Koundé has performed firmly and tirelessly throughout the season. His physical and tactical superiority has made the difference.
On the other side, Alejandro Balde has consolidated without major setbacks. However, Gerard Martín has had standout moments in some specific matches. Flick has positively valued his involvement in training sessions.
Light years from the starters
The technical management believes that Héctor Fort and Gerard Martín are still far from the necessary level. Koundé and Balde have set the standard of demand. Therefore, the idea is to bring in new faces to increase competition on both flanks.
Barça has scouted the market looking for young and offensive profiles. One of the technical staff's favorite names stood out for his speed and ability to unbalance. He fit perfectly into Flick's idea.
Jules Koundé expected competition
The French defender knew that his position wasn't guaranteed for the coming season. The entity was looking for a top-level reinforcement for the right-back position. The arrival of a new name could move many pieces.
Héctor Fort, meanwhile, understood that this addition would push him even further from the starting eleven. Even so, he has continued working silently to convince Flick. Everything pointed to his prominence decreasing even more.
Barça loses its favorite
However, the situation has completely changed in the last few hours. The great culé target has decided to move to the Premier League. His destination will be Liverpool, where he will soon sign his new contract.
We are talking about Jeremie Frimpong, the Bayer Leverkusen wing-back. The Dutchman was the first option to strengthen the right flank. His signing was almost a given in Barcelona, but everything went awry at the last minute.
A goodbye that opens doors
Koundé has already said goodbye to who could have been his new teammate. The Frenchman remains an undisputed starter in the project. But now, Fort appears as a clear alternative for the immediate future.
Barça wanted to sign Frimpong, but fate had other plans. In the midst of it all, a young homegrown player earns a spot that seemed lost.