Barcelona do not see Tottenham defender as a good fit as club explore options in case of departures | OneFootball

Barcelona’s transfer priorities have shifted as the summer window enters a decisive phase, with the club now placing its full attention on strengthening the attack rather than adding another central defender.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona will only return to the market for a centre-back if one of the current defenders leaves before the transfer deadline. 

The change in strategy follows Hansi Flick’s positive assessment of his existing defensive options, leaving the club free to focus its financial resources on signing a new No. 9.

The report also states that, despite repeated links in recent months, Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven is not viewed as the right technical fit for Barcelona’s style of play.

Confidence in Gerard Martin has changed plans

Barcelona had explored the possibility of reinforcing the heart of the defence earlier, with several names discussed internally as potential additions.

Gerard Martin has changed Barcelona’s transfer plans. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

However, that thinking has evolved following Gerard Martin’s development under Flick.

The German coach is understood to have been particularly impressed by the defender’s tactical discipline, consistency and ability to adapt to the demands of Barcelona’s high defensive line. 

His performances alongside Pau Cubarsi during key stages of last season further strengthened Flick’s belief that the squad already possesses enough quality in central defence.

As a result, the manager has informed the hierarchy to direct the club’s resources towards strengthening the attack instead.

Barcelona cool interest in previous defensive targets

Micky van de Ven is not a tactical fit for Barcelona. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Notably, the revised strategy has also affected several players who had previously featured in Barcelona’s planning.

On that note, Alessandro Bastoni was among the defenders admired by the club, but that interest has faded as priorities changed.

A similar situation applies to Micky van de Ven. Although Barcelona appreciate the Dutch international’s pace and physical qualities, the Tottenham defender does not possess the technical profile the club is looking for in a centre-back.

Thus, rather than making another defensive signing for the sake of adding depth, Barcelona are prepared to continue with their current options unless circumstances change before the end of the transfer window.