In the summer 2025 transfer market, FC Barcelona have managed to overtake their eternal rivals, Real Madrid, in one of the most desired transfers in Europe. Jonathan Tah, defender of Bayer Leverkusen, has officially signed with the blaugrana team, a move that has surprised many in European soccer.
The Competition for Jonathan Tah
Jonathan Tah has been one of the Bundesliga's most prominent defenders in recent years. Despite his important role at Bayer Leverkusen, the German center-back has decided not to renew his contract, which ends in 2025. This move, according to the player himself, replies to his desire to embark on a new project after more than a decade at the club.
Barcelona, who have been monitoring Tah's situation for some time, have taken the opportunity to sign him. However, Real Madrid had also shown interest in transfer him, as the German figured in their coach's plans. Finally, the Catalan club has taken the lead in the bidding, thus strengthening a defense that urgently needs to improve.
Eric García's departure and other moves in the back line
Tah's arrival at Barcelona is part of a series of moves that will affect the blaugrana defense in the coming months. One of the first changes will be the departure of Eric García. The former Manchester City player has failed to gain prominence since his return from Girona, and his departure seems confirmed for the summer of 2025.
The situation of other defenders such as Ronald Araújo, Andreas Christensen and Jules Koundé also remains uncertain. Araújo and Christensen have had injury problems, while Koundé faces questions about his discipline. These circumstances leave the door open for more moves at the back.
The uncertain future of Frenkie de Jong
One of the big issues at FC Barcelona is the situation of Frenkie de Jong . The Dutch midfielder is in the final stretch of his contract, with only a year and a half left. Although his quality is indisputable, his high salary has caused internal discontent, especially because he is the highest-paid player in the squad, above Robert Lewandowski.
Barça, led by Deco and Joan Laporta, are looking to sell De Jong in the upcoming winter transfer market to prevent his value from falling even further in the summer of 2025.
The sale of the midfielder would free up a large part of the club's wage bill and, in turn, finance the transfer of Jonathan Tah. Although it is not expected to get more than 50 million euros for De Jong, the operation will be key to balancing Barcelona's accounts.