Barcelona’s right-back position has been a point of discussion for some time now, but with Jules Kounde hoping to return to central defence next season, it will continue to be so.
A number of names have been speculated over the course of the season, with MD putting together Barcelona’s longlist for the position. It includes a few familiar names, such as Diogo Dalot, Juan Foyth and Thomas Meunier.
The Manchester United right-back has not seen his contract discussions bear fruit yet, and at this point is going into the summer with just a year on his deal, something that may precipitate a sale. Equally, Juan Foyth remains an option Barcelona like, but Villarreal seem unwilling to negotiate a deal with his release clause set at €60m. Muenier is perhaps a cheaper option, but is now 31 and is an option that does not convince as much.
The two new names on the shortlist seem unlikely too though. Malo Gusto, recently signed by Chelsea for €25m and on-loan at Lyon, is another alternative. This would likely have to be a loan deal. Meanwhile Bayer Leverkusen full-back Jeremie Frimpong is a player they admire greatly, but looks somewhat difficult due to the German side’s demands likely to exceed Barcelona’s means.
Barcelona fans may will be concerned that there appears to be little progress in the area. All of these options, as highlighted look tricky to pull off given their financial situation, or far from ideal. The question will remain if it is better to bring in a makeshift solution, or reserve funds for down the line when another option does do so.
