Neither Ronald Araújo nor Pau Cubarsí, there will be only one starter at 100%, Flick has no doubts

Looking ahead to next season, Barça's absolute top priority is to strengthen the defensive line. Iñigo Martínez's unexpected departure to Arabia has left a void that can't be filled without a top-level signing. It has been proven that Ronald Araújo isn't performing at the required level and that Pau Cubarsí needs a reliable partner.

After speaking with Deco, Flick has identified a signing capable of solving most of Barça's structural problems. The coach has spent months analyzing very interesting options such as Marc Guéhi, Dayot Upamecano, and Ibrahima Konaté, three top center-backs in Europe. However, none of them fit precisely the profile that the German coach considers necessary.

The perfect profile for Flick

The only one who meets all the requirements is Nico Schlotterbeck, defender and absolute leader at Borussia Dortmund. Flick knows him perfectly and believes that he's the best possible signing to rebuild the culé defense. His ability to compete in duels, his physical strength, and his tactical awareness make him an ideal center-back for Barça.

Nico Schlotterbeck stands out for being left-footed, tall, powerful, and having a very refined ball-playing ability. These qualities match Barça's need to start play from the back with reliability and tempo. In addition, his defensive reliability would help Pau Cubarsí and reduce the exposure that has hurt Ronald Araújo in recent months.

Nico Schlotterbeck would be undisputed for the new Barça

Flick has no doubts: if he arrives, Nico Schlotterbeck will be a starter 100% of the time. The German coach fully trusts his ability to lead a defense that needs authority and personality. Next to him, the most logical thing would be to keep Pau Cubarsí, while Ronald Araújo would have to wait for his opportunity on the bench.

Barça will try to finalize his signing next summer and will do so knowing that his contract ends in 2027. With a market value estimated at about €40 million, the operation could be more accessible than it seems. The club believes that signing Nico Schlotterbeck is essential to restore stability to the defensive line and to consolidate Flick's project.

In addition, Ronald Araújo and Pau Cubarsí would automatically raise their performance by being forced to keep a higher level. Flick especially values that competitive pressure because he understands that it's the most effective way to recover the defensive solidity that has been lost. Without a doubt, Nico Schlotterbeck will be the main name in culé news during the next summer.