Barcelona are actively seeking a new central defender, with several candidates under consideration by the club’s sporting department. While Alessandro Bastoni remains the primary target, the club is exploring cheaper alternatives should a deal with Inter Milan prove too costly. One such alternative is Natan.
This week, reports emerged that the Real Betis defender was offered to Barcelona as a potential alternative to Bastoni. The 25-year-old has made a significant impression during his two seasons in Andalusia, and 2026 might mark the next step in his career. However, this next step could potentially be in England rather than Catalonia.
According to The Chronicle (via ED), Newcastle United have registered their interest in Natan, viewing him as a potential solution to their defensive issues. A return to Serie A is also a possibility for the former Napoli defender, with Juventus reportedly considering a move.
Barcelona and Newcastle notified of Natan asking price
Real Betis is firm on their stance: Natan will not be allowed to leave for a reduced fee. While it was previously suggested that he could be available for as little as €30 million, with increasing competition, Barcelona may need to pay as much as €57.5 million to secure his transfer to the Spotify Camp Nou.
If Barcelona were to face such a price tag for Natan, it would likely be a non-starter. The Catalan club is currently only prepared to go up to €50 million for Bastoni, their top target. It’s highly improbable they would exceed this figure for a player not yet officially on their shortlist.
Nevertheless, it will be interesting to observe Natan’s future this summer. If he does depart from Real Betis, Catalonia is unlikely to be his ultimate destination.
