Barcelona table £26.2m bid for Palace star | OneFootball

Barcelona prepare £26m offer for Crystal Palace defender as Flick targets key addition

Barcelona make first move for Crystal Palace star

Barcelona have reportedly made their opening offer for Crystal Palace right-back Daniel Muñoz, with Fichajes reporting that Hansi Flick views the Colombian as a priority signing to strengthen his defensive options. The proposed deal is believed to be worth around €30 million (£26 million), and the Catalan club are now accelerating talks in an effort to reach an agreement before rival clubs enter the race.

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The move represents a calculated strategy by Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, who is tasked with reinforcing both full-back positions under the constraints of La Liga’s financial regulations. With Jules Koundé currently deputising at right-back, Flick wants a natural wide defender who can contribute both in defence and attack.

Muñoz, 29, has been one of Crystal Palace’s most reliable performers since joining from Genk. His consistent form in the Premier League has caught the attention of several European clubs, but Barcelona’s interest appears the most concrete so far.

Premier League experience attracting European attention

Since arriving in South London, Muñoz has become a vital part of Palace’s defensive structure. His energy, overlapping runs and solid tackling have made him a key outlet down the right flank. In Flick’s system, such attributes would offer balance to a Barcelona side still searching for a reliable presence on both sides of defence.

According to Fichajes, Barcelona view Muñoz as a versatile option who could slot into multiple roles across the back line. His ability to play as a traditional right-back, wing-back or even in a back three adds to his appeal.

“Muñoz has the strength, pace and defensive awareness to handle the demands of La Liga,” one source close to the player said. “He has improved immensely in England and could bring a Premier League edge to Barcelona’s back line.”

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Crystal Palace, however, are in no rush to sell. With Muñoz under contract until 2028, the club retain a strong position in negotiations. Palace officials reportedly consider the £26 million valuation as a starting point, not a ceiling, and any deal would depend on Barcelona meeting their terms.

Barcelona balancing ambition and finance

While Barcelona’s interest is genuine, the club’s ongoing financial challenges complicate matters. The 1:1 rule imposed by La Liga means every expenditure must be matched by revenue or savings, forcing the Blaugrana to be pragmatic. Deco is understood to be exploring potential player sales to create room for new arrivals in January or next summer.

Still, the allure of signing a proven international defender who could adapt quickly to Spanish football remains strong. For Flick, Muñoz fits the mould of a disciplined yet adventurous full-back, reminiscent of the club’s most effective modern defenders.

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Competition for Muñoz intensifies

Barcelona are not alone in their pursuit. Atlético Madrid are also monitoring the situation, according to reports in Spain, and could challenge Barcelona if Palace show willingness to negotiate. This added competition may drive up the price or accelerate discussions, particularly if Muñoz expresses a desire to make the move.

The player’s emotional connection to Barcelona could prove decisive. “It would be a dream to play for Barça,” Muñoz once admitted, and that sentiment may influence Palace’s stance should formal offers materialise.

If Barcelona succeed, the addition would mark another important step in rebuilding their defence under Flick. A deal at around €30 million would reflect both opportunity and ambition, a calculated investment in a player capable of delivering immediately.

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Muñoz has been one of the most consistent players at Selhurst Park, combining defensive reliability with attacking intent. Losing him mid-season, particularly for a fee as modest as £26 million, would be a significant blow.

Fans will also worry about timing. Palace have already endured difficult spells without key players, and Muñoz’s departure could disrupt both shape and rhythm. With his contract running until 2028, supporters will hope that chairman Steve Parish demands top value or rejects any offer outright.

However, some may accept that the player’s ambition could shape events. If Barcelona come calling, the appeal of playing at Camp Nou is undeniable, and Muñoz has earned the right to test himself at the highest level.

Ultimately, while admiration from a giant like Barcelona highlights Palace’s growing reputation for developing Premier League-calibre talent, it also underlines the challenge of keeping hold of their best performers. Fans will be hoping this story remains just that, a rumour, rather than another transfer saga that ends with a key departure.