Barça is tracking in an attempt to sign Schlotterbeck and Inacio

The Blaugrana club is keeping a close eye on the market for left-footed centre-backs for next season.

Barça lost their only left-footed centre-back this summer with the surprise departure of Íñigo Martínez to Saudi Arabia. The club prioritised saving on his salary, considering that the position was well covered, but was left without a specific profile at the back. The sporting management is compiling reports on left-footed centre-backs who may be available on the market next summer and is closely monitoring the progress of Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck, who is recovering well from a serious injury.

Schlotterbeck has become a top-level player at Dortmund in recent years, even making it to the German national team. He can play as a left-footed centre-back and even as a full-back, and his profile fits what Barça is looking for. German media outlets claim that the centre-back is putting up obstacles to his contract renewal as he may have a significant offer behind him, and they claim that Barça is interested in the player.

The German centre-back's contract expires in 2027 and, for now, he has not reached an agreement to extend his contract. Schlotterbeck would prioritise a move to a team that could guarantee him major titles and would welcome the option of Barça. With only one year left on his contract in the summer, his price would be more than reasonable. He is valued at £35 million, but could sign for much less.

Schlotterbeck suffered a serious knee injury at the end of last season, but he has come back strong and has already regained his starting position at Dortmund. We will have to see how he progresses, but everything indicates that he will continue to perform at his highest level.

The Blaugrana club will have to carefully analyse the centre-back position for the future. Christensen's contract is coming to an end and his future is far from clear, so if he leaves, the club will have to go to the market and sign a player with potential. The club is also closely following Gonçalo Inácio, from Sporting Lisbon, whose contract also expires in 2027 and has not yet been renewed. They are similar profiles, both at a good age and with a lot of international experience.

Barça considers both players to be interesting prospects as they can also play an important role on the left wing and could represent opportunities in the transfer market.