Following their La Liga title win, Barcelona have already begun planning for the 2026/27 season. German manager Hansi Flick is working with sporting director Deco to finalize his new attacking project.
According to sources within the club, Flick is not only focusing on big names in the transfer market, but also on how well a player fits the tactical system, particularly with regard to developing young star Lamine Yamal.
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In this context, Brazilian forward João Pedro has emerged as a preferred option within the coaching staff, ahead of other prominent names, including Argentinian Julián Álvarez.
Flick believes that João Pedro is not just a traditional striker, but a “complete forward” capable of linking up play and participating in the build-up, not just finishing attacks inside the penalty area.
The German coach prefers this type of striker who can draw defenders out of position and create space, which directly benefits the team’s wingers, especially Lamine Yamal, who can capitalize on space and freedom in one-on-one situations.
João Pedro also possesses the ability to play with his back to goal, receive the ball under pressure, and quickly distribute it to his teammates, giving Barcelona greater flexibility in attacking transitions and in building play from deep.
Although Julián Álvarez is considered a more direct and effective striker in front of goal, Flick’s vision relies on a “link striker” who combines the roles of a traditional striker and a playmaker.
Technical assessments within Barcelona indicate that this new role is referred to by the coaching staff as a “striker-and-a-half,” given its significant impact on the team’s overall attacking structure.
Furthermore, the player’s experience in English football and his ability to adapt to different playing styles are additional factors that strengthen his position on the shortlist.
According to sources, Flick has already given the green light to seriously consider the deal, while Deco has been tasked with monitoring the situation and assessing the possibility of signing him in the upcoming transfer window.
Barcelona’s management believes that this step aims not only to enhance scoring power, but also to develop the entire attacking system in a way that serves the new team project and increases the effectiveness of young players within the squad.
