The Hansi Flick era at FC Barcelona is moving into its most decisive stage yet. After spending a full season evaluating his squad, the German coach — together with Sporting Director Deco and the club’s sports committee — has reportedly set a clear direction for the future. The testing period is over; now comes the phase of implementation.
According to reporting from Mundo Deportivo journalist Roger Torelló, Barcelona have already mapped out their plan for the 2026/27 campaign. The club’s needs are well-defined and long overdue: a commanding centre-back, an explosive winger, and a long-term replacement for the No. 9 position.
Although the attacking positions are fueling constant speculation — with names like Rafael Leão and Viktor Gyökeres dominating discussions — it is in defense where Barcelona have done the most serious groundwork. Flick’s famously daring high line demands defenders who are not only quick and aggressive but also capable of thriving in huge defensive spaces.
Below is a detailed look at the five centre-backs currently on Barça’s shortlist and why they fit the identity of the “New Barcelona.”
1. Gonçalo Inácio (Sporting CP)
A long-time favorite of Deco, Inácio checks nearly every box. The left-footed Portuguese defender combines excellent ball distribution with composure under pressure, making him ideal for a team that builds from the back. Inácio plays like a midfielder in possession, which aligns perfectly with Flick’s philosophy. His release clause is high, but tactically he is almost tailor-made for Barça’s left center-back role.
2. Murillo (Nottingham Forest)
If Inácio is about elegance, Murillo is about raw power. The Brazilian’s mix of strength, speed, and recovery runs has made him one of the Premier League’s breakout stars. He excels at chasing down counterattacks — crucial for a team holding a high line. For Barcelona, Murillo would be the defensive “safety net” who prevents fast forwards from punishing their aggressive structure.
3. Nico Schlotterbeck (Borussia Dortmund)
A true “Flick profile.” The German defender is familiar with Flick’s defensive expectations: intense, proactive, and always looking to step forward rather than retreat. Schlotterbeck is dominant in the air, naturally left-footed, and brings the physical edge typical of Bundesliga defenders. Because Flick knows him so well, he may be the most reliable option on the list.
4. Luiz Benedetti (Palmeiras)
The wildcard of the group. At just 19, Benedetti represents the affordable, long-term gamble Barcelona used successfully with players like Araújo and Mika Faye. Standing at 1.97m, he combines imposing size with surprising technical ability — a hallmark of Palmeiras’ academy. This move would be more about future planning than immediate impact.
5. Marc Guéhi (Crystal Palace)
Perhaps the smartest business opportunity. With Guéhi’s contract set to expire in June, Barça could secure a Premier League-proven defender, national-team regular, and natural leader on a free transfer. Considering his market valuation of €50 million or more, landing him without a fee would be a major coup for Deco amid the club’s financial challenges.
The Bigger Picture: Attack Reinforcements Coming Next
While the defense is the priority, the report’s reference to a winger and a striker signals a significant transition in Barcelona’s forward line. With Lewandowski needing managed minutes and Raphinha drifting between roles, the club is preparing for a new attacking cycle.
Whether the solution is Leão, offering unpredictability on the left flank, or Gyökeres, a powerful scorer ready to inherit the No. 9 role, the 2026 summer window promises to be one of the most pivotal in recent memory.
Hansi Flick has outlined what he wants.
Now it’s up to Deco to turn the plan into reality.
