Barcelona monitoring underrated La Liga defender who could cost between €30-35 million | OneFootball

Barcelona’s search for defensive reinforcements appears to have taken a new direction, with Real Betis defender Natan emerging as a player of interest ahead of the summer transfer window.

According to reports from El Chiringuito TV, the Catalan club has recently stepped up their monitoring of the Brazilian centre-back as they continue exploring options to strengthen their backline. 

While signing a new central defender is not currently viewed as the club’s highest priority, Barcelona remain attentive to opportunities that could improve the squad without placing excessive strain on their finances.

The profile being sought is a left-footed centre-back capable of providing balance in defence and fitting into Hansi Flick’s tactical plans.

Barcelona add Natan to defensive shortlist

Barcelona have spent recent months assessing several candidates for the role, with some ambitious names previously linked to the club.

Barcelona are keeping an eye on Natan. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Manchester City’s Josko Gvardiol was one of the defenders admired by the Blaugrana, but recent developments suggest the Croatian could commit his future to the Premier League side through a new contract.

Meanwhile, Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni was considered Barcelona’s preferred option, although the financial demands associated with a deal eventually led the club to move away from that pursuit.

That situation has opened the door for alternative targets, and Natan has now emerged as one of the names under consideration.

A strong candidate?

The 25-year-old offers several qualities that make him an attractive option. 

Natan is a solid La Liga defender. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

In addition to being left-footed, he already has experience in La Liga and would likely cost significantly less than some of Europe’s elite defenders, with his valuation believed to be between €30 million and €35 million.

His performances for Real Betis during the 2025/26 campaign have also caught attention, as Natan recorded 32 tackles and 37 interceptions throughout the season while proving highly effective in aerial duels. 

His ability to defend one-on-one situations was another standout aspect of his game, with opponents rarely managing to beat him.

Although the Brazilian may not generate the same excitement as players such as Bastoni or Gvardiol, there is a strong argument that he could represent a smart and realistic signing because he is still young and would not cost much.