Barcelona decide academy gem is not enough as Deco hunts new defensive signing | OneFootball

Barcelona have identified another area that needs attention before the transfer window closes, with Deco pushing for an experienced centre-back following Ronald Araujo’s move to Liverpool.

It is said that the Catalan club is not convinced that their current options are enough to get through the entire 2026/27 campaign, particularly with Araujo no longer available.

According to AS, sporting director Deco is now working intensively on the market in search of a left-footed centre-back who can provide both experience and reliability.

Notably, that search could have consequences for Alvaro Cortes, who remains an option for Hansi Flick, but Barcelona are not convinced that he is ready to carry the responsibility of being a regular first-team defender.

Barcelona need experience after Araujo departure

Araujo’s loan move to Liverpool has changed the depth of Barcelona’s defence.

Alvaro Cortes might end up leaving too. (Picture credit: Instagram/@alvaarocortes)

The club is now left with Pau Cubarsi, Eric Garcia, Gerard Martin and Andreas Christensen as their main first-team options in the position, leaving less room for rotation over what promises to be a long campaign.

Cortes could theoretically provide additional cover, but the club still has doubts about whether he can make the jump from occasional appearances to a full season competing for a regular first-team role.

On top of that, there is another complication, as Cortes no longer wants to return to Barça Atlètic and already has offers from elsewhere. 

A departure in the coming days is therefore possible, which would make Barcelona’s need for another centre-back even more pressing.

Deco is consequently looking for someone who can arrive and immediately provide competition rather than simply another young player who needs time to develop.

Deco wants a left-footed Barcelona centre-back

Ronald Araujo’s Liverpool move has opened doors for a centre-back signing at Barcelona. (Photo courtesy: Liverpool official website)

The profile Barcelona are seeking is a left-footed centre-back who can offer experience and fit within the club’s financial limitations.

On that note, Luka Vuskovic was admired by Barcelona before completing his move to Brighton, but at 19, he was considered too young for what Deco currently needs.

The same concern applies to Jon Martin of Real Sociedad. Barcelona like the defender, but his age makes him less suitable for the immediate requirement.

The same thinking explains why Cristian Romero was not considered the perfect fit despite his experience and quality.

Barcelona are not simply looking for the best available centre-back. They want a very specific profile.