Barcelona's plan to strengthen the left-back position

FC Barcelona continues to plan for the future, despite the significant effort made by the club during the last summer transfer window to reshape the squad, particularly in the attacking department, after returning to the 1:1 salary cap rule.

According to a report by the Spanish newspaper SPORT, Hans Flick and the FC Barcelona sports management believe that the left-back position still needs reinforcement, with limited financial resources prompting the club to seek suitable opportunities in the transfer market, especially players whose contracts are expiring and can be signed for free.

FC Barcelona currently has several options on the flanks, relying on Eric Garcia and Jules Koundé on the right side, while the left side includes João Cancelo, Espart, and Alejandro Balde, with the possibility of using some right-footed players in this position.

Alejandro Balde has not been at his best at the start of the season, leaving his future open to all possibilities, including a departure if the player himself decides to seek a new experience. The Spanish full-back was close to leaving FC Barcelona last summer, and a departure could again be an option if he continues to be sidelined.

FC Barcelona has previously sought to strengthen the left-back position with notable names, including Alejandro Grimaldo, who later moved to Atlético Madrid, and Andrea Cambiaso, a Juventus player, who was closely monitored by the Catalan club. However, the deal would have required a significant financial investment.

David Raum, a player from RB Leipzig, stands out among the names being considered to bolster the left-back position. Flick knows him well from their time in Germany, as the player is characterized by his consistency and international experience. Additionally, his current contract expires at the end of the season, making him available for negotiations on a free transfer.

Tyrick Mitchell, Crystal Palace's left-back and former England international, is among the options previously linked with FC Barcelona, as his contract also expires at the end of the current season.

FC Barcelona is expected to start its moves early regarding contract renewals, as players whose contracts expire can negotiate and sign with other clubs starting in January. Meanwhile, RB Leipzig is working on renewing David Raum's contract, as the German club wants to keep him in their starting lineup.