FC Barcelona keeps scanning the market in search of opportunities. After a hectic summer and with several names being mentioned, Deco is looking to strengthen Barça without compromising its delicate finances.
The main target was Nico Williams, but his release clause and the strong competition have cooled down that option. From there, the club is working on more affordable alternatives that still fit the profile Hansi Flick is looking for: fast wingers, with dribbling skills, capable of breaking games open from the wing. Above all, players who accept a rotation role and who are committed to the project.
A very specific profile
Barça wants a young player, either Spanish or familiar with LaLiga, who doesn't require a major investment and who can adapt quickly to the system. This isn't an easy task. Many clubs have moved ahead in some deals, and other players haven't fit due to financial or sporting reasons.
Deco is working quietly, waiting for his moment, trusting the market will offer that opportunity that fits the puzzle. That's why it's no coincidence that talk has resurfaced about an old Barça desire. A footballer who was already on the blaugrana radar and who now could be closer to wearing the blaugrana jersey.
Bryan Zaragoza returns to the Barça radar
Yes, it's Bryan Zaragoza, one of the most attractive names in the Spanish market. The Andalusian winger, after a brilliant first half of the season with Osasuna, isn't in Bayern Munich's plans. The German club paid about 17 million (17 millones) to Granada for him, but after his loan in Pamplona, they're looking to recoup the investment.
So far, the offers that've arrived (from Betis, Celta, or Villarreal) don't convince the Germans, since all are based on loans or low-cost transfers. Barça is playing a different card: waiting for its moment, not rushing, and stepping in when the deal is viable.
Bryan was already liked when he was at Granada. Deco followed him closely and even asked him to wait, since his release clause would drop with relegation, but Bayern moved first. Now, with his future hanging in the air, Barça is back in the race, not in a hurry, but with real interest.
A medium-term bet
From Camp Nou, they want to extend the market, prioritize other deals, and see if Zaragoza remains available toward the end. It's not about signing out of necessity, but about seizing an opportunity if it arises.
Bryan could be a very useful piece: young, with potential, and with recent experience in LaLiga. In addition, he's willing to wait. He knows the Barça train doesn't come by every day.
Edu Aguirre didn't shout it, but he made it clear: Barça wants to sign Bryan Zaragoza. All that's left is for the scenario to fit, and every day it seems more likely.