Olympique Lyon's situation has drawn the attention of half of Europe. In recent days, its administrative relegation to the Second Division has been confirmed due to a debt that reaches €500 million ($500 million) and it still can't pay. In this context, Lyon is expected to open the exit door to many players in the coming weeks in an attempt to save itself from disappearing.
Barça pays attention to Lyon
From the list of possible departures from Lyon, one name stands out that has been on FC Barcelona's radar in recent years. This is Nicolás Tagliafico, Argentina's starting left-back, who is 32 years old. He is one of the great bargains of the summer, with his contract ending on June 30 and becoming a free agent. He won't be renewed by the French team and is set to join a European giant.
He is a very well-known left-back in Barça's environment, since he was about to wear the culer jersey. In January 2022, Mateu Alemany had him on his list and even held negotiations, but it wasn't possible.
Nicolás Tagliafico has played a total of 33 matches with Lyon this past season. In total, he has recorded 5 goals and 3 assists. In the five major European leagues, there are only two left-backs who have scored more than him: Gosens and Cucurella.
He is a defender who would fit perfectly into Hansi Flick's system thanks to his verticality. With the opportunity to sign him for zero euros, Deco is considering carrying out this operation... Although he knows he will have to act quickly if he doesn't want to miss out on him.
An exit if Nicolás Tagliafico arrives
If Nicolás Tagliafico ends up confirming his signing for FC Barcelona, there will have to be a departure. All eyes are on the homegrown player Gerard Martín, who has caused a lot of interest this summer.
Martín is a highly demanded left-back in the Premier League, where Wolverhampton and Bournemouth have already inquired about him.
At this time, it seems highly complicated for him to leave, especially considering that Barça is asking for €20 million ($20 million) for his transfer. If he ends up staying, it seems impossible for the signing of Nicolás Tagliafico, who is already negotiating with other European powerhouses, to take place.