RESOLVING THE LEDGER
This is one outlet's own report from Yahoo Sports — the article as it was filed. Other outlets are covering the same event; open the full story to compare every source side by side.
See the full story · 1 sourcesLa Liga defender back on Barcelona’s radar following Ronald Araujo exit
FC Barcelona are once again being linked with Natan, the 25-year-old centre-back currently at Real Betis.
Indeed, according to TNT Sports Brasil (h/t Mundo Deportivo ), the Catalan giants are considering the Brazilian as a possible replacement for Ronald Araujo, who has officially joined Liverpool on loan .
As per the report, Natan’s name had already been discussed internally at Barcelona, but the situation has now evolved.
According to the information, the Blaugrana have opened talks with Real Betis over the possibility of negotiating a permanent transfer for the former Flamengo defender.
A profile Barcelona already know
Barcelona like Natan. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
Natan had previously been offered to Barcelona by his agent, Andre Cury, following his strong performances in La Liga.
His profile is particularly interesting because he is a left-footed centre-back, a characteristic that the La Liga champions value when assessing options for the heart of the defence.
He also brings European experience and could provide Hansi Flick with another reliable option as the coach prepares his squad for the new season.
Araujo’s departure changes the equation
The departure of Araujo has created an opening in Barcelona’s defensive planning.
As things stand, Pau Cubarsi and Gerard Martin appear to be the first-choice centre-backs for the Barça manager.
Will Barça make a move for the Real Betis man? (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
Eric Garcia and Andreas Christensen are options to provide cover, while young prospect Alvaro Cortes could also gain prominence within the first team setup.
The club must now decide how much responsibility it wants to place on its younger defenders, such as Cubarsi and Cortes, while ensuring there is enough depth to cope with a long season.
That has brought Natan back into the conversation.
For now, however, Barcelona have other priorities ahead of strengthening the defence. The Catalans remain focused on finding a new No. 9, such as Julian Alvarez, and completing the signing of Manchester City and Spain superstar Rodri to reinforce the midfield.
Natan is therefore a name to watch rather than an imminent signing, but Araujo’s departure has undoubtedly made the Real Betis defender a more relevant option for the La Liga champions than he was before.
AIPROPX is an independent multi-source news index — we track, compare, and connect coverage from across the web into one place you won't find anywhere else.