‘Didn't excite’: Why Flick, Deco rejected PSG's young star for Barcelona defence

Barcelona turned down the opportunity to sign Paris Saint-Germain defender Lucas Beraldo during the summer 2025 transfer window, according to multiple reports. The 21-year-old Brazilian centre-back was offered to the Catalan club as a potential solution to their defensive needs following the departure of Iñigo Martínez to Saudi Arabia.

Transfer Decision

Barcelona’s sporting director Deco and head coach Hansi Flick reportedly showed no interest in pursuing Beraldo, with sources stating the player “didn’t excite either Deco or Flick”. Despite Beraldo’s reputation as a technically gifted left-footed defender who made 67 appearances for PSG since joining in 2024, the club chose not to engage in negotiations.

Context Behind the Rejection

The decision left Barcelona without a senior central defender replacement, contributing to defensive instability in the early part of the 2025–26 season. While financial constraints may have played a role, the primary reason cited was a lack of enthusiasm from the club’s leadership regarding Beraldo’s fit within Flick’s tactical system.

PSG’s Stance on Beraldo

PSG had set strict conditions for Beraldo’s departure: a minimum transfer fee of €30 million and the signing of Bournemouth’s Illia Zabarnyi as a replacement. Although Beraldo expressed a desire to leave in search of more playing time, especially with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, PSG and his entourage later denied that he formally requested a transfer.

Barcelona are now reportedly monitoring other options, including Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, who will be available on a free transfer at the end of the season.