The transfer window has once again surprised us, and this time Barcelona has taken the lead over Real Madrid. Deco, Barça's sporting director, has taken a key step towards signing a German defender, beating Florentino Pérez's offer to reinforce Real Madrid's defense.
The Player Barça and Madrid Want
Bayer Leverkusen centre-back Jonathan Tah has been one of the Bundesliga's standout performers in recent years. At age 28 and with vast experience in both the German league and the national team, his market value is high.
However, his contract with Bayer Leverkusen expires in June 2025, and according to sources close to the player, he has no intention of renewing. This puts him in a strategic position for major European clubs looking for a quality defender.
Bayer Leverkusen has tried on several occasions to convince the centre-back to extend his stay at Bayer, so far without success, though. The German defender's possible free transfer next summer has attracted Real Madrid's and Barcelona's attention. Deco and Florentino Pérez have started a war to get the player.
Real Madrid's Interest
Florentino Pérez had been considering the German defender for weeks as an option to reinforce Real Madrid's defense, especially after Dani Carvajal's injury. The captain's absence has revealed the lack of stability in Real Madrid's defense, which has led the club to look for reinforcements that provide solidity and versatility.
Tah, meanwhile, would've been an ideal signing for Carlo Ancelotti's side. His physique, defensive profile and experience make him an ideal choice for an elite club like Real Madrid. However, Barcelona's sporting director Deco has taken the lead in negotiations.
Deco Makes a Move
In a strategic move, Deco has managed to get ahead of Florentino in the race for Tah. The Catalonian club, which needs to strengthen its defense for next season, sees the German defender as a pillar in the renewal of its backline.
But Deco hasn't been alone in this operation. Marc-André ter Stegen, Barça's goalkeeper and Tah's teammate in the German national team, has also played a key role in the talks.
Ter Stegen has spoken to his compatriot to explain the advantages of joining Barça, highlighting the opportunity to fight for titles and become a key part of the team.
The Flick factor: an advantage for Barça
A key aspect that could tip the balance in favour of Barça in this signing is the relationship between Jonathan Tah and Hansi Flick.
The former German national team coach coached Tah during his time as national coach, and the two have a good relationship. This "Flick factor" could be decisive in the defender's decision to join the Catalan club.
Hansi Flick knows Tah's qualities well: his defensive solidity, his good aerial play and his ability to lead the defensive line. These qualities are highly valued at Barça, who are looking to restore stability to a defense that has been vulnerable in recent years.