Flick gives green light to signing a centre-back in January

Flick confirmed Barcelona will explore defensive reinforcements in the January transfer window, with Gvardiol, Bastoni, Lisandro Martínez and Natan among targets.

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has given the green light to pursue a centre-back signing in January, marking a shift from his summer approach when he prioritised attacking reinforcements. Speaking ahead of the Alavés match, Flick confirmed the club is studying defensive alternatives after injuries have limited his options in that position.

"We always talk about what's best for the team and how we can improve it. We're doing that. We've spoken with Deco, Bojan and my coaching staff. If we can, we will," Flick said. The decision is not yet final, but the German coach has opened the door to strengthening the defence.

Barcelona's shortlist includes Manchester City's Josko Gvardiol (contract until 2031), Inter's Alessandro Bastoni, Manchester United's Lisandro Martínez and Real Betis's Natan. The latter two are considered more accessible options. Martínez benefits from his contract situation and reported unhappiness at United, while Natan could be available at an affordable price and already knows La Liga. Future targets include Stuttgart's Finn Jeltsch and Leipzig's Castello Lukeba. Any deal will need to fit Flick's project and Barcelona's financial constraints, with potential outgoings like Alejandro Balde possibly necessary to fund the move.