Jonathan Tah is set to become Barcelona’s first signing of 2025, unless any last-minute changes occur.
The German center-back, whose contract with Bayer Leverkusen ends next summer, is poised to join the Catalan club on a free transfer once the deal is confirmed in January.
According to Spanish outlet El Nacional, both Deco and Hansi Flick have approved the move, reinforcing Barcelona’s defensive options.
Tah’s transfer represents both a strategic and valuable acquisition. At 28, he is one of the Bundesliga’s top defenders, having excelled under Xabi Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen.
His physicality, leadership, and ability with the ball make him a strong fit for Barcelona’s style of play. His addition will bolster a defense that has been plagued by injuries this season and is lacking depth.
Deco has been instrumental in the negotiations, fully aware of the competition for Tah’s signature, with top clubs like Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain also interested.
However, Barcelona’s persistence and the appeal of their project ultimately convinced Tah to commit to the club.
Hansi Flick has also endorsed the move, recognizing Tah’s importance in strengthening the defense. With his extensive knowledge of German football, Flick appreciates Tah’s ability to adapt to complex tactical setups, seeing him as an essential piece in building a strong, balanced team capable of competing at the highest level.
For Barcelona, signing Tah in January is a vital step in both enhancing their defensive options and reinforcing their long-term strategy.
He will add depth to a defensive line that includes Ronald Araujo, Pau Coparsi, and Iñigo Martínez but has been in need of a reliable backup this season.
Sources close to Tah say he is excited about the chance to join Barcelona, drawn to their possession-based playing style, which could foster his personal growth. The opportunity to represent a club with such a rich history and ambition is also a major motivator.
Unless unexpected developments arise, Jonathan Tah is on track to become Barcelona’s first signing of 2025, a move that promises to be one of the standout transfers of the summer.
