Barcelona eye €15m-rated Ligue 1 star as Flick seeks reinforcement in key position | OneFootball

Barcelona did not reinforce the right-back position during the summer transfer window despite trying to rope in Joao Cancelo, and later on Marc Pubill.

The Financial Fair Play situation at the club made it impossible for the Blaugrana to bring in a reinforcement. As such, manager Hansi Flick has continued with Jules Kounde as his preferred starter in the position with Hector Fort as backup.

However, according to SPORT, the German tactician is of the opinion that Barcelona do need another right-back even though he is very happy with how Kounde has performed thus far.

Tiago Santos on the agenda

As such, the report states that Barcelona are tracking Lille right-back Tiago Santos, who is enjoying a fine season with the Ligue 1 outfit.

The Blaugrana are already keeping a close watch on Lille forward Jonathan David and have made use of their scouting trips for the Canadian striker to watch Santos as well.

Tiago Santos on Barcelona’s radar. (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images)

The Portuguese right-back signed for the Ligue 1 outfit last year and has steadily established himself as a regular starter. This season, the 22-year-old has made 13 appearances in all competitions, racking up a couple of assists as well.

Tiago Santos, who has a contract with Les Dogues until 2028, is known for his good positioning defensively as well as his attacking intent down the right flank.

Another factor that might play into Barça’s favour is the fact that the Portuguese defender is represented by superagent Jorge Mendes, who has very close ties with the Catalan club’s administration.

For now, Barcelona are aware of how much it could cost to sign Tiago from Lille and that there are several top clubs keeping an eye on the young right-back.

*Player valuation in title obtained from transfermarkt.com on date of publication.