Jules Koundé arrived at Barcelona as a centre-back but has spent much of his time at right-back. Under Flick, he has become an important attacking outlet, combining with Lamine Yamal and contributing in the final third.
That role may not be permanent. If Ronald Araújo leaves, Koundé could move back into central defence while still offering cover on the flank. It would give Flick flexibility without requiring Barcelona to commit resources to another experienced defender.
The report says Barcelona also expect Andreas Christensen to play a greater role, while Pau Cubarsí remains one of the club’s central defensive priorities.
Laporte’s form alongside Cubarsí for Spain has strengthened the case for his signing. His experience would bring balance to a young defensive group, while his relationship with Cubarsí appears to have developed quickly.
Yet the proposed transfer is reportedly less straightforward than first thought. Barcelona would need to negotiate directly with Athletic Club, who brought Laporte back and are unlikely to make his departure easy. Relations between the clubs have also been strained by previous transfer sagas involving Nico Williams.
That combination of cost, negotiation difficulty and internal cover appears to have weakened Barcelona’s interest.
Flick’s stance is significant. Rather than treating Laporte as essential, the Barcelona coach is reportedly comfortable using Koundé, Cubarsí, Araújo, Eric García, Christensen and Gerard Martin across the defensive line.
Barcelona are therefore expected to focus more heavily on adding another attacking option. The club’s recruitment strategy may depend on whether Araújo leaves, but the current direction points away from Laporte.
The next transfer window will reveal whether Barcelona trust Koundé to become a central defender again-or return to the Laporte market if their defensive plans change.