FC Barcelona are still moving in the market to reinforce a defence that could change significantly this summer. According to Mundo Deportivo, Natan, the left-footed centre-back from Real Betis, has been offered to the blaugrana club. His name appears as a more accessible alternative to other much more expensive targets.
The Brazilian defender is 25 years old, stands at 1.88 metres and is left-footed, a profile Barça are actively looking for. The club value centre-backs with clean distribution, physical power and the ability to defend large spaces. In that context, Natan fits as an interesting option inside a very wide list.
The operation is not advanced yet, but there have already been movements around the player’s camp. His agent, André Cury, met with Deco to discuss possible conditions. The defender has a long contract with Betis, meaning he would not leave for just any fee.
Cury moves the file
Natan’s offer arrives at a time when Deco is studying several defensive scenarios. Barça remain attentive to left-footed centre-backs, versatile full-backs and possible major exits. That is why any profile with a more controlled price can gain weight in meetings.
Mundo Deportivo already reported in April that Natan was one of the centre-backs offered to Barça. At the time, he was presented as a cheaper alternative to names such as Alessandro Bastoni. Now, the latest contact with Cury has placed his name back on the blaugrana table.
Betis do not intend to give him away, as they have recently made an important investment in him. The Andalusian club exercised their purchase option after having him on loan from Napoli. The deal was closed for €9 million, with a contract running until 2030.
Betis would demand an important fee
The figure being discussed for a possible exit would not be low for Barça’s current situation. According to Mundo Deportivo, Natan could leave for around €30 million plus €5 million in variables. That amount remains significant, although it is far below the fees demanded for more elite centre-backs.
For Betis, such a sale would represent a huge profit compared to their recent investment. The club paid €9 million for him and could almost triple that amount. That gives the Andalusian side room to negotiate from a comfortable position.
Barça, however, must measure every euro very carefully this summer. Deco still has open attacking priorities and needs to organise several important departures. That is why Natan would only make sense if the club seek a more affordable defensive formula.
Flick wants a left-footed centre-back
The interest in profiles like Natan responds to a specific need in the new Barça project. Hansi Flick wants a more physical, quicker defence capable of competing in Europe. A left-footed centre-back could also balance the build-up alongside Pau Cubarsí.
The Brazilian offers power, aerial strength and recent La Liga experience with Betis. That would reduce adaptation risks compared to centre-backs arriving from other leagues. It could also allow Barça to add a competitive profile without waiting for an almost impossible opportunity.
Barça Blaugranes, citing Mundo Deportivo, describes him as an alternative to Bastoni. It also highlights his left-footed profile, physical strength and threat from set pieces. Those traits explain why his camp is trying to place him inside the blaugrana orbit.
An option, not a priority
Natan does not currently appear as the main favourite to strengthen Barça’s defence. The club are working on more ambitious names and also evaluating full-backs who can play in several positions. But his price, profile and experience in Spain make him a useful file.
Mundo Deportivo also claims that the defender would only consider leaving Betis for a clear sporting step forward. In that scenario, Barça would be one of the destinations capable of truly attracting him. That detail could help if Deco decides to activate the operation later.
The outcome will depend on exits, Financial Fair Play and the final priorities of Flick and Deco. Natan has been offered, Cury has already spoken with Barça and Betis know their price. And that is the twist: he is not the most media-friendly centre-back, but he may be the most realistic one.
Caution note: This article is based on reports from Mundo Deportivo, Barça Blaugranes and current market speculation. At the time of writing, there is no official agreement between FC Barcelona, Real Betis and Natan.
Discover more from Barça Buzz
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
