Barça is already preparing for the upcoming season, with Deco prioritizing key moves in the transfer market. At present, Hansi Flick is focusing on three main players for the winger position: Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Ferran Torres. While the squad has other options, such as Ansu Fati and Pau Víctor, the German coach does not rely on them for his tactical plans.
To strengthen their wing play and boost competitiveness across all competitions, the club is keen to bring in a new addition to this area.
**Rafael Leão: A Potential Target**
One player high on the club’s radar is Rafael Leão, the Portuguese winger from Milan. Joan Laporta is particularly excited about him, seeing him as a game-changer capable of making an impact in high-stakes matches. Leão’s speed, dribbling, and ability to break down defenses make him an appealing option for Barça’s attacking lineup.
At 25, Leão is a well-established global star at Milan. However, his transfer is unlikely to be straightforward, as the Italian club is reluctant to part with one of its key players, and his price tag remains high. Nevertheless, Leão’s name remains on the list of potential signings for Barça.
**Flick’s Assessment of Leão**
Not everyone at the club shares the same enthusiasm for Leão. According to *El Nacional*, Hansi Flick has expressed reservations about the Portuguese winger. While he acknowledges Leão’s talent and potential, Flick finds him to be inconsistent in his performances.
Flick feels that although Leão can produce moments of brilliance, he doesn’t always maintain a consistent level throughout the season. Additionally, Flick is concerned about Leão’s lack of defensive effort. The German coach values a high-intensity pressing game, particularly after losing possession, which he feels Leão doesn’t consistently provide.
**Flick Prefers Other Options**
Flick has also identified other candidates who align more closely with his preferred style of play. One such player is Nico Williams, the Spanish international. Despite a dip in form, Williams is known for his electrifying pace and superior off-the-ball work rate compared to Leão, making him a more fitting option for Flick’s system.
