Barcelona transfer news: Catalan giants 'hold initial calls' to sign player in particular position

Jules Kounde is the first-choice right-back at Barcelona, with the 26-year-old featuring on 41 occasions during the 2024-25 campaign, but he was initially brought to the club as a central defender.

Hector Fort is currently the back-up in that position, making 14 appearances this season, but there are question marks when it comes to the 18-year-old's long-term future.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona want to bring one more right-back to the club this summer, and there have been 'initial calls' over an introduction in that area of the field.

Kounde is likely to remain the number one pick in that area, but with so many matches across all competitions, it is understood that head coach Hansi Flick wants to bring in cover for the key position.

Barcelona 'want to sign a new right-back this summer'

Espanyol defender Omar El Hilali is reportedly on Barcelona's radar, with the 21-year-old in impressive form this season.

El Hilali has made 25 appearances for Espanyol during the 2024-25 campaign, providing two assists in the process, and he would be a low-cost option during the summer transfer window.

Rayo Vallecano's Andrei Ratiu has also been a standout in terms of La Liga right-backs this season, and it was recently claimed that Real Madrid were interested in his signature.

There have also previously been suggestions of interest in Manchester United's Diogo Dalot, but the Portugal international is not believed to be a priority for Barcelona at this stage of proceedings.

Barcelona are in charge of the La Liga title race

Barcelona will be aiming to make it seven straight wins in La Liga when they host Osasuna on Saturday night, and a victory would see them move four points clear at the top of the La Liga table.

"It's a tough game, as I always say. When we played there they pressed us very well and we had problems. Tomorrow is a different game and we will be ready," Flick told reporters.

"It's always good to see the positive things. Negative things or mistakes are not good. We are good at thinking positive, at pressing. We want to play like we used to. We have learned in the past that we can defend well as a team.

"We have a clear idea of how we want to play. We analyse the team and Barca B. What I have here is that there is a clear connection with Deco and the club. The players and the whole team want to play and compete.

"In the dressing room, there is a special atmosphere. It's the most different thing. Everyone is looking out for each other. We have a great atmosphere with the players and the staff. Everybody feels important. It's great. It's easier when you win than when you lose, but this is the way to manage it."

Barcelona are unbeaten in all competitions in 2025, with their last defeat coming in December 2024 against Atletico Madrid.

Written by

Matt Law