Barcelona could use La Masia gem in makeshift role if key target does not join

Only a few more days remain before the summer transfer window closes and Barcelona are still waiting on a certain Joao Cancelo.

The 30-year-old right-back returned to his parent club Manchester City after spending the last season on loan at Barcelona but has been strongly linked with a move back to Catalonia.

Barça, for their part, are eager to bring Cancelo back, but only on a loan deal – something that Manchester City do not want to accept. Furthermore, the player’s wages would also be a concern amidst the ongoing registration issues.

Furthermore, Cancelo is attracting serious interest from Saudi Arabia, and Man City are eager to offload him there. But the player desires to return to Barcelona, who are prepared to wait until the last day of the window for the right-back.

Barcelona have options if Cancelo does not arrive

Indeed, as per SPORT, Barcelona would be willing to wait until the deadline day to see if they can re-sign Cancelo.

If his signing does fail, the Blaugrana believe they are more than well-equipped in the full-back positions.

At left-back, Alejandro Balde is back fit and firing again and in Gerard Martin, Hansi Flick has found a reliable alternative.

On the right side, Jules Kounde continues to prove himself while Hector Fort is waiting in the wings for his chance despite speculations about his future.

Marc Casado another alternative

Beyond Kounde and Fort, Barcelona can also count on a certain Marc Casado as an option for the right-back position if needed.

The La Masia gem is primarily a defensive midfielder but has played at right-back in the past and can be a makeshift option for Flick if circumstances call for it.

Casado, likened to Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich due to his ability to play in midfield and right-back and some similarities in the way they play, slotted in at right-back in 11 matches for Barça Atletic last season, even scoring two goals.

The 20-year-old has become a full-time first-team member this season and started the opening game vs Valencia but did not get minutes on Saturday against Athletic Club as Flick preferred Marc Bernal and Pedri ahead of him.

Once Gavi and Frenkie de Jong return, competition for places in midfield will further increase. At that time, Casado’s versatility could help him get minutes as he can be an option in the right-back position.