Pau Cubarsí has burst onto the scene like a whirlwind this season at Barcelona. At just 17 years old, he has gone from a youth academy prospect to a key piece in the blaugrana defense. His maturity, composure, and tactical intelligence have made him a regular starter, earning the coach's trust and the fans' respect.
Cubarsí has already shared the defensive line with experienced players like Ronald Araújo and Iñigo Martínez, but he doesn't hesitate when talking about competition. In fact, he wouldn't mind the arrival of a new center-back. He knows that talent grows with challenges, and his ambitions are high.
The name making headlines: Ibrahima Konaté
In this context, a strong name emerges: Ibrahima Konaté, a 26-year-old French center-back who currently plays for Liverpool. His contract ends in 2026, but his refusal to renew has opened the door to a possible transfer this summer. Real Madrid has taken note, meanwhile so has Barça.
Konaté is a physical, fast defender with experience in the Champions League and Premier League. This profile would fit perfectly alongside Cubarsí, forming a golden partnership in Barça's immediate future.
Can Barça compete for Konaté?
The operation isn't simple. Liverpool could let him go for €40 million, although an offer of €25 million might be enough if they fear losing him for free in 2026.
The main obstacle here is financial. Barça, which already has center-backs like Araújo, Christensen, Iñigo Martínez, or Eric García, faces a clear salary cap limit. However, within the club, they don't rule out a move if sales or loans happen this summer.
Cubarsí, who has already earned a starting spot, would be delighted to share the defense with a center-back like Konaté. Not out of fear of losing prominence, but because of his ambition to build an impenetrable line. With Konaté by his side, the young Catalan could grow even faster and, at the same time, take a key signing away from Real Madrid.
Madrid also pushes
Yes, Real Madrid wants him too. In Chamartín, they see Konaté as the ideal replacement for Nacho and as a future partner for Rüdiger or Militão. They were thinking of signing him next summer, but they could move ahead if Barça fully enters the race.
In short, the battle is on. Pau Cubarsí hasn't just shown that he's the present and future of Barça, but he also has a voice. His message is clear: Konaté is the perfect signing to stop Madrid and build a culé wall for the next decade.