Barça does not rule out signing another center-back: What options are there in the market?

FC Barcelona could make a last-minute signing to strengthen their defense this summer. The surprising departure of Iñigo Martínez has left a gap in Hansi Flick's XI that, in theory, should be covered by Ronald Araujo. However, the recent injury history of the 'charrúa' raises uncertainty about who will be Pau Cubarsí's partner in the center of defense this season.

Andreas Christensen, in principle, seemed like a fixed discard, but with Iñigo's departure and his good feelings in the preseason (he played 147 minutes in the four summer friendlies) he has managed to earn Flick's trust. The other option is Eric García, a true 'lifesaver' for the coaching staff last season.

The player from Martorell performed as a pivot and right-back when injuries plagued the squad. In that sense, the '24' seems to settle more on the flank, as the first alternative to Jules Koundé. After the Gamper, Flick did not want to definitively close the door to incorporating another center-back, although he also made it clear that it is unlikely to happen.

Can Barça sign another center-back this summer?

First, because there are only three weeks left in the market and the club has many issues to resolve. The priority is to register all the players and finally return to the 1:1 rule. Then, if there is time and economically viable alternatives, it will be seen whether another reinforcement arrives or not.

In principle, Barça was planning to spend 60 million on Nico Williams. Finally, Marcus Rashford arrived (on loan), while Ronny Bardghji barely cost a couple of 'kilos'. In theory, there should be room to go for another signing, but is there any center-back worth signing this summer? Let's see some 'low cost' alternatives.

Axel Disasi (Chelsea)

Axel Disasi, in a match with Chelsea

The Frenchman arrived at Chelsea in 2023 from Monaco for 45 million, but in January of this year he went on loan to Aston Villa. Although he has a contract until 2029, he is not in Enzo Maresca's plans and could arrive on loan. For now, Villarreal sounds like a possible destination for the 27-year-old defender, but Wolverhampton also wants him.

The player from Gonesse stands out for his physical strength and good aerial play. With Chelsea, he has 6 goals and 5 assists in 61 official matches, but in his time at Villa Park he only played 10 matches (614 minutes) in the second half of the 24/25 season. Therefore, the Frenchman is looking for a team where he can relaunch his career.

Lukas Klostermann (RB Leipzig)

Lukas Klostermann, defender of RB Leipzig

Another center-back with an imposing physique and a lot of experience in the European elite. The German has been at RB Leipzig for eleven years, but the arrival of coach Ole Werner could open the door for him to leave. In the 24/25 season he played 35 matches (2,037 minutes), scoring one goal in the league.

Considering that his contract expires in 2028, Barça could negotiate a transfer for around 12-15 million euros, a figure that the club has already received this summer thanks to the transfer of Pau Víctor. In total, he has accumulated 198 Bundesliga matches in his resume, with 12 goals and 3 assists.

Marin Pongracic (Fiorentina)

Marin Pongracic, Fiorentina's player

Another much younger defender who could arrive for an affordable amount. The Croatian has a contract with Fiorentina until 2029, but could leave for a figure close to 20-25 million euros. Last season he only played 29 matches (2,111 minutes) due to several physical problems in the first half of the season, but he closed the season at a very high level.

Pongracic can play as a center-back on the right or left, being an organized player, impeccable in aerial play and with good footwork to come out with the ball under control. Fiore paid 15 'kilos' to Lecce for his transfer last summer and, for now, he is a key player for coach Stefano Pioli.