FC Barcelona continues to contend with the absence of Íñigo Martínez, who departed for Saudi Arabia. The void left by the former Athletic Bilbao defender is proving significant. Confronted by a perceived lack of leadership in the backline and as they await the full consolidation of Pau Cubarsi, the 'Cules' recognise the imperative to enter the transfer market in pursuit of reinforcements.

The personal and sporting circumstances surrounding Ronald Araujo, whose return is anticipated after the Christmas break, combined with Andreas Christensen's persistent physical problems and lingering uncertainties regarding Eric Garcia's optimal positioning, are compelling FC Barcelona to explore the acquisition of at least one, if not two, new defenders.

While the temporary deployment of Gerard Martin as a left-footed centre-back, a role in which he excelled at youth level, offers Flick and Deco a degree of immediate relief, they are already meticulously formulating their summer plans, with a clear objective to bolster the squad.

Bastoni: The Frontrunner

In line with typical high-level sporting strategies, FC Barcelona has reportedly identified their primary target for a significant defensive acquisition. Dominating their wishlist is Alessandro Bastoni, the commanding centre-back for Inter and a veritable pillar of the 'Nerazzurri' defence. The 'Blaugrana' hierarchy had ample opportunity to scrutinise his qualities during last season's Champions League semi-finals.

As reported by Matteo Moretto on "Radio Marca", Deco has already convened in Milan with Bastoni's representative. Nevertheless, the player's robust contract, which extends until 2028, is poised to significantly inflate the cost of any potential operation, rendering his acquisition a particularly complex undertaking.

Joško Gvardiol Emerges as 'Plan B'

However, Bastoni is not the sole defensive prospect on Deco's radar. "Mundo Deportivo" indicates that another centre-back generating considerable interest within the confines of Camp Nou is Joško Gvardiol, presently plying his trade at Manchester City.

Yet, much like his Italian counterpart, the prohibitive cost of his acquisition presents a significant impediment. The 'Citizens' famously expended 90 million euros to secure the Croatian's services three years prior and are reportedly unwilling to sanction his departure for a sum less than their initial investment.

The forthcoming European summer transfer window is anticipated to be exceptionally active, particularly within the centre-back market. Several prominent names, including Ibrahima Konate, Marc Guehi, and Dayot Upamecano, currently possess contracts nearing their expiration. Furthermore, Nico Schlotterbeck has reportedly voiced his desire to depart Borussia Dortmund, while numerous other defenders are already engaging in behind-the-scenes manoeuvres, positioning themselves as potential candidates to don the 'Barca' shirt.

Joško Gvardiol

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