Flick asks for a new ‘9’ while Ferran Torres decides his future

Hansi Flick has acknowledged that the squad needs to act in that position. The coach maintains his confidence in Deco and the sporting management, but considers it important to have a forward capable of taking on the goals and penalty-area presence left by the Polish striker.

Ferran Torres's situation affects much of the planning. The Valencian has a contract, but has not ruled out changing clubs and his future remains pending on decisions taken during the transfer window. The club are also considering a possible renewal when financial room allows it.

If Ferran stays, he could start with an advantage in occupying the centre-forward position. His movement, pressing and ability to attack spaces fit Flick's system, although Barça are still assessing the signing of a more specialist attacker.

The market offers alternatives, but the most ambitious deals require substantial investment. The sporting management is studying profiles capable of playing as the focal point as well as versatile footballers who can appear on the wings or move behind the striker.

Flick also has solutions within the squad. Lamine Yamal can play occasionally as a false nine, although the priority is to keep him on the right, where he has more space to unbalance opponents. Dani Olmo and other attackers could also take up central positions depending on the opponent.

The arrival of fast, versatile players broadens the attacking combinations, but does not remove the need for a clear focal point in the penalty area. The coaching staff want to avoid a lack of an out-and-out striker limiting the team when it faces deep defences.

The decision will shape the start of the season and the distribution of minutes in a renewed forward line. Barça still have room to go to the market, but each passing week makes it more important to resolve a position essential to Flick's project.