Barça chooses its four main candidates to strengthen the right back position

The FC Barcelona is preparing for a busy transfer market at the end of the season. Aside from the arrival of a winger and a forward, the club has prioritized strengthening its right back position, a role that Jules Koundé has played entirely. For this reason, and although fortunately his physical condition has not been an issue, the club remains firm in its search for the ideal replacement for the Frenchman, as Hansi Flick has shown not to trust Héctor Fort too much.

In this regard, the sports management, led by Deco, is handling a list of promising candidates for the right side of the defense. Although Jeremie Frimpong is the dream target for the club, his high price and status as a top-level player complicate his arrival in the Catalan capital, so Andrei Ratiu, Vanderson, Marc Pubill, and Daniel Muñoz emerge as the main options for the board.

Andrei Rațiu: A complete right back

The Romanian international, currently at Rayo Vallecano, is one of Barça's favorite alternatives due to his age, price, and performance. At 26 years old, the defender has proven to be a balanced right back, capable of performing well in both defense and attack.

This season he has played 28 matches in LaLiga, scoring two goals and providing three assists. His release clause of 25 million euros makes him an affordable option for the Blaugrana club, where he is valued not only for his numbers but also for his consistency and experience in Spain.

Vanderson: A new Brazilian 'star' for the flank

At 23 years old, the right back from AS Monaco combines youth with experience after several standout seasons in Ligue 1. During the current season, Vanderson has played 34 matches, scoring two goals and providing four assists. His ability to break down the wing and create danger makes him an attractive profile.

On the other hand, the Monaco team has estimated his transfer fee to be around 20 million euros, a reasonable figure considering his long-term potential. Additionally, his versatility allows him to adapt to different tactical schemes.

Daniel Muñoz: Experience from the Premier League

The Colombian is one of the preferred names of the sports management to strengthen the right back position. At 29 years old, the defender from Crystal Palace has had a standout season both defensively and offensively, playing 34 matches across all competitions, scoring five goals and providing five assists.

His goal-scoring ability is unusual for a fullback and adds extra value to his profile. With an estimated cost of 25 million euros, Muñoz offers international experience and leadership. His signing could be key to adding competitiveness to the Blaugrana squad.

Marc Pubill: The young Catalan promise

The 21-year-old right back, currently playing for Almería, is considered one of the great promises of Spanish football in his position. Originally from Terrassa, the player stands out for his versatility, physical power, and ability to adapt to different tactical schemes. This season, he has been an undisputed starter in the Indálico team, gaining experience both in the Second Division and in international competitions with the Spanish U-23 team, with which he won Olympic gold last summer.

His contract expires in 2029 and his release clause is valued at 40 million euros. However, it is speculated that the Blaugrana club could negotiate his signing for a lower amount, taking advantage of the player's willingness to return to the Catalan capital and the financial needs of the Andalusian club.

The other right backs being followed by FC Barcelona

In addition to the previously mentioned names, Can Barça is considering other alternatives that could compete with Jules Koundé and add depth to the squad.

• Devyne Rensch - Ajax (22 years old): The Dutchman is a technical and versatile player who can also play as a center-back. His contract expires at the end of this season, making him an attractive option from an economic standpoint. Additionally, the defender has already been scouted by the Blaugrana scouts on several occasions. His ability to join the attack and his defensive solidity make him an interesting profile to compete with Koundé.
• Omar El Hilali - Espanyol (21 years old): The Spanish-Moroccan has had a standout season with the Periquitos in LaLiga, establishing himself as one of the best young fullbacks in the league and one of the great promises in the position. His ability to break down the wing and create danger has earned him praise both inside and outside the white-and-blue club. Although it is unknown whether Espanyol would be willing to sell him to their city rival, his profile would fit within Barça's budget constraints.

What does Barça really need?

The FC Barcelona faces a crucial summer where it will have to make strategic decisions based on its economic limitations and sporting needs.

• Marc Pubill represents a long-term bet with Catalan roots.
• Andrei Rațiu offers immediate solidity at a low cost.
• Vanderson combines youth and long-term projection.
• Daniel Muñoz brings experience and offensive versatility from the right back position.

Deco and Hansi Flick will have to decide which of these profiles best fits the team's tactical needs and the financial restrictions imposed by LaLiga. What is clear is that Barça will spare no effort to strengthen this key position for the upcoming season.