FC Barcelona is currently not considering signing a new centre-back in this transfer window. According to Spanish media reports, the club is evaluating Ronald Araujo's situation, as his future as a starter remains uncertain after the previous season.
If the Uruguayan defender leaves and the market does not offer a suitable replacement, Jules Koundé is viewed internally as an option to return to his natural position at centre-back. The French player earned his move to Barcelona in 2022 from Sevilla playing in this role.
Within the current squad, Eric Garcia is trusted as a right-back option, while Hector Fort and Xavi Espart are competing for a spot on the flank. As for central defenders, Pau Cubarsí and Gerard Martín finished last season as regular starters, and Andreas Christensen, eager to overcome injuries, remains trusted by coach Hansi Flick.
Flick also values the youth centre-back prospects from La Masia. In May, he gave Álvaro Cortés his league debut against Deportivo Alavés, praising his ball-playing ability. Cortés is expected to join the squad’s upcoming training camp at St. George’s Park starting this Monday.
Koundé, a World Cup semifinalist with France and called up along with eight Spanish tournament winners and English player Anthony Gordon for the upcoming August 10 start of the season, extended his contract in August 2025 until 2030. He has already played 188 official matches for Barcelona and boasts a notable trophy haul with three La Liga titles, one Copa del Rey—highlighted by his goal in the 2025 final against Real Madrid—and three Spanish Super Cups.
Barcelona’s management sees Koundé as an important internal option and a potential key player if changes occur in the defensive line. For now, the club refrains from pursuing external centre-back transfers, awaiting developments within the squad.
