According to Fabrizio Romano, Barça keep advancing in talks to sign Jonathan Tah, as reported already in November. Negotiations are progressing well to make it happen.
internal problems with tah’s arrival
The signing of Jonathan Tah is almost in its final stages and will be official soon. This signing raises questions about Hansi Flick’s sporting vision. With the addition of the German defender and the plethora of players in that position, questions arise about departures in the upcoming transfer windows.
The clear answer to the question points to a guaranteed transfer of one or two defenders. Barcelona currently has Pau Cubarsí, Iñigo Martínez, Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, Eric García, and Jules Koundé, who can fit in the center-back position.
Excluding Pau Cubarsí, Iñigo Martínez, Ronald Araujo, and Jules Koundé, who are considered important for Flick, as three out of the four are regular starters. Koundé has Flick’s 100% trust, and Flick considers him as untouchable in the transfer market. Pau Cubarsí and Iñigo Martínez are regular starters, and Flick seems to keep both for the long term. In Ronald Araujo’s case, he has been injured and has just recovered but still is considered one of the best, so Flick won’t consider his departure. Ronald Araújo’s contract renewal is under talks, and this will make things even more permanent.
Who could leave?
Assessing the scenario, the two clear candidates who could be listed on the transfer market are Eric García and Andreas Christensen.
Eric has only played a total of 541 minutes under the German coach, using him as a pivot. Given the interest of several clubs, Barcelona could think about his departure. On the other hand, Andreas Christensen has been in the newspapers for quite a long period of time linking him with several clubs. The Danish defender has played barely under Flick this season due to Achilles tendon tendinopathy in his left leg that has kept him out of action since last August.
What does Jonathan Tah bring into the squad?
Tah would bring many qualities to Barcelona’s defense, giving physicality and versatility to the back line. As a central defender in the back four, Tah has shown his adaptability by excelling in a back three with Germany. His strength and quality in aerial duels would add much-needed solidity to Barcelona’s defense.
Tah is also good with the ball, and his composure with the ball at his feet aligns well with Barcelona’s possession style of play. Tah’s style of play is similar to the Netherlands’ De Ligt, who likes to be involved in the build-up play and create spaces for the attackers. Tah’s arrival would bring depth and stability to the squad, enhancing the team’s overall structure.