It's time, Hansi Flick asks for a top signing and Deco's got him: 'Better than Ronald Araújo'

After Barça's defeat in El Clásico, Hansi Flick believes this is the most opportune moment to meet with Deco. The German coach has requested several very specific reinforcements to strengthen the team and correct the mistakes that were exposed against Real Madrid. The first of these, and the most urgent, is the arrival of a top-level international center-back.

Currently, Barça's defense is supported by Eric García and Pau Cubarsí, who have established themselves as starters in recent matches. Their performance has been remarkable, but Hansi Flick believes the team needs a more experienced defender to compete at the highest level. Ronald Araújo, who was expected to be a starter, has lost prominence and is spending more and more time on the bench, as his performance is not the desired one.

The German coach has been clear in his assessment: Barça needs a leader at the back. Someone with authority, ball-playing ability, and the capacity to dominate in physical duels. In that search, Deco has identified the ideal footballer to meet Flick's demands.

Hansi Flick requests a top signing and Deco has him

After a long search, Deco has identified Nico Schlotterbeck from Borussia Dortmund as the best candidate. The German center-back is one of the most complete defenders in Europe. His strength, tactical awareness, and precision in ball distribution make him a player very much to Flick's liking, who knows him well from his time in the Bundesliga.

At 25 years old, Nico Schlotterbeck combines experience and youth, a mix that fits perfectly in Barça's rebuilding project. Hansi Flick is certain: he's better than Ronald Araújo and it's worth betting on his signing. He believes his ability to organize the defensive line, keep concentration, and execute accurate passes from the back surpasses that of the Uruguayan.

Nico Schlotterbeck, top signing for 2026

The problem, however, lies in his contract. Nico Schlotterbeck is tied to Borussia Dortmund until 2027, which complicates a short-term move. Even so, Deco believes he can try to convince him to join Barça in 2026, since he still hasn't renewed and his camp doesn't rule it out.

Deco's strategy is to get ahead of the big clubs that are also closely following the German. According to sources close to the sporting department, Barça plans to send a formal offer in the summer of 2026. For Hansi Flick, signing Nico Schlotterbeck is a priority investment that could shape the future of the culé backline.

Thus, the club is working with a clear goal: to finalize the signing of Nico Schlotterbeck as soon as possible. In Barça's offices, they consider him a strategic signing, the center-back who can restore the solidity and respect lost in Europe. Most importantly: Hansi Flick fully endorses him, convinced that he's better than Ronald Araújo and that he can lead the culé defense for many years.