Barcelona launches hunt for centre-back with Gvardiol as first choice

Barcelona has opened a search for a new central defender after recent heavy defeats to Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, with the club’s sporting department placing reinforcements in the back line among the top priorities for the next transfer window.

Primary targets and realistic options

Joško Gvardiol remains the Blaugrana's first choice, but his position looks difficult: the Croatian defender extended his deal with Manchester City last summer until 2031, making a winter move unlikely. Barcelona would only expect a genuine opening if Manchester City faced severe sanctions related to financial irregularities.

Also on Barcelona’s list is Alessandro Bastoni, though Inter Milan are expected to resist selling a key centre-back in the middle of the season, especially given Bastoni’s contract runs until June 2028.

More attainable targets, according to club planning, include Lisandro Martínez and Nathan. Martínez’s contract with Manchester United expires next summer, and United could consider a winter sale to avoid losing him for free. However, Martínez’s history of injuries is a concern for Barcelona’s medical staff and sporting directors.

Nathan, aged 25 and currently at Real Betis, is valued at about €30,000,000 plus potential add‑ons. His performances last season and so far this campaign have convinced observers that he could step up to a club of Barcelona’s size.

Any move will depend on Barcelona’s financial room and the possibility of offloading players before the window opens; securing an experienced centre-back is already listed among the club’s transfer priorities for the coming window.

Photo: press material from the event