According to Alfredo Martinez on SPORT, Barcelona are planning to rope in a left-footed centre-back into the squad in the summer.
The Catalans have a well-stocked defensive unit currently that has been performing admirably of late. Jules Kounde, Andreas Christensen, Ronald Araujo and Eric Garcia make up the centre-half roster at Xavi Hernandez’s disposal. However, none of them are left-footed.
Furthermore, Barça did not bring in a new player to replace Gerard Pique after his retirement earlier this season.
While Marcos Alonso has played in a central position this season, the report states that he is viewed as an option for his natural left-back role moving forward.
Hence, a new centre-back who is left-footed, is being sought by the current La Liga leaders.
And, the report states that directors Mateu Alemany and Jordi Cruyff are considering three low-cost options for the place.
Firstly, Athletic Club veteran Inigo Martinez remains on Barcelona’s agenda, having been close to signing for the club last summer. The 31-year-old will be a free agent at the end of the season.
It is said that the Blaugrana remain in contact with the Spaniard, and the player himself is willing to wait for a move to Camp Nou.
Meanwhile, Eintracht Frankfurt’s Evan Ndicka is another soon-to-be free agent that Barcelona are looking at. Reports in Germany have even claimed that a verbal agreement is in place between the club and the player.
Finally, Barcelona are reportedly weighing up the possibility of reintegrating Samuel Umtiti into the roster. Having joined Lecce on loan, the Frenchman has done well in Italy and seems to have recovered his fitness and confidence.
The 2018 FIFA World Cup winner already has a contract with Barça and had reduced his wages last year. The report states that Umtiti is ‘feeling very good, and hopes to recover his place at Barcelona.
It remains to be seen which way the Blaugrana decide to go in their pursuit of a left-footed centre-back come summer.