Hansi Flick chooses his pick between Barcelona’s two targets to replace Marc-Andre ter Stegen | OneFootball

Barcelona’s hunt for a new goalkeeper has taken an intriguing turn, with a recent report from Mundo Deportivo suggesting that manager Hansi Flick prefers Wojciech Szczesny over Keylor Navas.

The reason behind Flick’s preference is said to be Szczesny’s relationship with Robert Lewandowski. As both players are Polish internationals and share a strong bond, it is thought that this could help Szczesny adapt more quickly to life at Barcelona.

The outlet claims that just after the recent training session, Barcelona’s sporting management held a meeting to discuss the best option for replacing their current German goalkeeper.

What was discussed?

The key discussion point was whether to sign a goalkeeper now, given the limitations of the current transfer market or to wait until the January window opens when more options would be available.

Keylor Navas is Hansi Flick’s second choice. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

Barcelona are only able to sign a free agent goalkeeper due to market restrictions, and this makes their decision all the more urgent. The management is leaning towards signing a new goalkeeper to cover the rest of the season, with the possibility of reassessing their long-term needs in the summer.

This strategy would allow them to avoid being tied down to a hasty decision and instead make a more informed choice about their future.

At the moment, the club has narrowed down their options to two candidates: Wojciech Szczesny and Keylor Navas. However, it is clear that if Flick has the final say, Szczesny is his preferred choice.

Szczesny, who was a starter for Poland during the European Championship, not only brings international experience but also the added benefit of his friendship with Lewandowski.

This connection could ease his transition to Barcelona’s squad. However, before making any moves, it is said that Szczesny must first resolve some contractual issues with Juventus, as he still has outstanding payments from the Italian club.