Barcelona’s pursuit of defensive ace faces delay as target postpones future decision until 2025

It is no secret that Barcelona are keeping a close eye on Jonathan Tah with the intention of strengthening their defence next summer. 

However, according to Mundo Deportivo, the defender has made it clear that he will not make any decisions about his future until the beginning of 2025, meaning Barcelona will have to wait before they know whether they have a chance to sign him.

It must be noted that the Catalan club attempted to bring Tah during the last summer transfer window. They put forward an offer to Bayer Leverkusen in the final days of the market, but the German side rejected it, deeming the bid insufficient. 

Barcelona, aware of Tah’s contract situation, chose not to raise their offer. Since the player is set to become a free agent in June, they are hoping to secure his signature on a free transfer. If he sticks to his plan, Tah is expected to leave Leverkusen next summer, unless something changes.

Barcelona face competition

In the time since, Tah’s value has continued to rise, and now several top clubs are interested in him. Bayern Munich, who also tried to sign him last summer, are still keen to bring him on board. 

Barcelona are in race to sign Jonathan Tah. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)

However, Barcelona face even more competition from Real Madrid. With the long-term injury to Eder Militao and David Alaba’s recovery, Real Madrid now only haves one natural centre-back, Antonio Rudiger. 

This situation makes Tah a desirable option for their defensive line as well. While the player has confirmed that he will not be renewing his contract with Bayer Leverkusen, he has not yet made any firm decision about his next destination. 

Barcelona are optimistic

He has stated that he will wait until January when he is free to negotiate with any club. It is expected that he will make his decision by then, possibly as early as January or February.

Given that Barcelona were on the verge of signing him last summer, it is likely that the club will continue to be a strong contender for his signature, especially with the presence of Hansi Flick as their manager. 

Flick, who previously worked with Tah in the German national team, could play a key role in convincing him to join Barcelona.