The fullback Deco likes most gives Jules Koundé a boost: 'My plan is to stay'

For several weeks now, Deco has made the strategic decision to strengthen Barça's full-back positions with next season in mind. The sporting director believes that the current squad doesn't have enough alternatives on the flanks of the defense to compete for all the titles. Although Jules Koundé and Balde are two of the best in the world in their position, the fact that they don't have a backup undermines the hopes of the culé team.

Although Hansi Flick has tried to find solutions by readapting players to those positions, the truth is that the team's needs have forced some completely unexpected changes. For example, Gerard Martín, who started as Balde's substitute, is now the team's starting center-back. The same thing is happening with Eric García, who has stopped being Jules Koundé's backup to play as a pivot in the midfield.

This scenario forces Deco to act. He has already met with Flick and Joan Laporta to address this issue and make the best decision, which is none other than to go to the transfer market. Giving Jules Koundé and Balde some rest is an absolute priority.

The full-back Deco likes most brings joy to Jules Koundé: "My idea is to stay"

On the left side, the name that convinces Deco the most is Grimaldo, currently at Bayer Leverkusen. Grimaldo was trained at La Masia and has never hidden his personal desire to return to Camp Nou. His profile fits Barça's style and would provide direct competition to Balde without hindering his progression.

On the other flank, Deco's top favorite is Óscar Mingueza, from Celta de Vigo. Also raised at La Masia, Mingueza has all the necessary characteristics to return to Barça and become a very valuable piece for Flick. However, his latest statements distance him from Barça, much to Jules Koundé's delight.

Óscar Mingueza has made it clear that his idea is to continue at Celta, where he feels valued and stable. The full-back has explained that he wants to enjoy the present and decide his future calmly when the season ends. "I'm very happy here and everyone knows I'd love to stay here, so my idea is to stay".

This way, Deco will have to look for other alternatives to accompany Jules Koundé in 2026 and complete his defensive planning. Óscar Mingueza is no longer an option for the right flank at Camp Nou.