Iñigo Martínez's unexpected departure has left a gap that's difficult to fill in Barça's defense. Pau Cubarsí, still very young, has been forced to take on more responsibilities than expected. This situation worries the coaching staff and forces them to look for immediate solutions.
Currently, Ronald Araújo and Andreas Christensen are responsible for supporting the academy graduate. However, defensive fragility has increased since Iñigo's exit. The numbers at the start of the season show more insecurity at the back than in previous campaigns.
Given this scenario, Deco has gotten to work. The sporting director doesn't want to wait for the situation to get worse. His goal is to strengthen the backline in the winter transfer window with a strategic addition.
Deco looks for alternatives for Barça
Deco is aware of the club's financial limitations. That's why he's looking for a profile that can arrive under very specific conditions. The challenge is to find a reliable center-back without compromising the budget.
Initially, his big dream was to sign Alessandro Bastoni from Inter. The Italian is highly regarded for his leadership and ball-playing ability. However, the cost of his signing, over €80 million, makes it an unfeasible option.
For this reason, Deco has activated an alternative plan. The sporting management is analyzing market opportunities that could fit current needs.
Laporte, the most convincing option
The name that's emerged most strongly is Aymeric Laporte. The internationally renowned center-back combines experience and proven quality. In addition, he's in a contractual situation that opens the door to a change of scenery.
His signing for Athletic seemed finalized a few weeks ago. However, negotiations fell through at the last moment, leaving an unexpected scenario. That circumstance has revived Barça's options, which now sees his arrival as possible.
Deco believes Laporte could arrive in January through a favorable loan. This is a much more accessible operation compared to others.
Deco and the winter market strategy
The sporting director won't make a hasty decision. His plan is to wait until December to analyze the defense's performance. If the problems persist, bringing in Laporte will become a priority.
The idea is for him to partner with Pau Cubarsí during the second half of the season. This way, the academy graduate would have an experienced partner by his side. Meanwhile, Araújo and Christensen would face more internal competition.
Barça prepares for a busy January
In any case, what seems clear is that there will be changes in Barça's defense. Deco has marked January in red. It will be the key moment to adjust the backline and make a qualitative leap.
Laporte is, as of today, the most realistic option. If the deal goes through, Pau Cubarsí will find the partner he so badly needs. Meanwhile, Barça will take an important step toward regaining its lost solidity.