We’ve only just entered 2020, yet Barça has already received a little present. Yesterday, Fabrizio Romano stated that Eric Garcia has already agreed personal terms with Barcelona. The date of his arrival is unknown. Barça will try to sign him in winter, but they may as well wait for his contract to expire and get the 19-year-old for free in the summer. What is certain though, is that the La Masia graduate will be a Barça player by the 1st of July.
I’m thrilled, and so should every Barça supporter be. Eric Garcia is a terrific central defender, and the exact definition of the modern day CB. He’s neither tall nor incredibly quick, yet his positioning, anticipation and awareness make up for his physical weaknesses. He is phenomenally reliable for a teenager, and that’s something our defence lacks at this point. He’s very comfortable on the ball and is always looking to beat the opponent’s press with one pass. His CV and achievements aren’t that big, but Garcia has the potential to change that very soon.
No money to spend
Those are the signings we need to make right now. Cheap, yet effective. Eric Garcia would only cost us around 5 million if we are to buy him now, which is an absolute bargain for a player who is acquainted with the team’s playing style and ready to fight for a starting spot. No matter who becomes the next president, Garcia should be part of our plans.
Once more, one should mention that transition which we need at this point. Piqué isn’t young anymore, and might leave quite soon for the sake of Barça’s squad rejuvenation. Umtiti and Lenglet, who were both signed as his potential successors, have failed to live up to the expectations. Now things are looking much better.
Ronald Araújo and Oscar Mingueza have already broken into the first team, but that’s not enough. As we have already seen, they’ll have a few rough moments which will only diminish as they gain experience. Eric Garcia is another young centre-back who would add even more competition so that they all push each other and improve together.
