Barcelona interested in Real Betis defender Natan, says agent

Barcelona are interested in signing Real Betis defender Natan during the current summer transfer window, according to the player’s agent Andre Cury.

Cury said the Spanish club had expressed an interest in his client, although there has been no formal approach from Hans-Dieter Flick’s side so far.

“Barcelona are interested in signing Natan, but we have not received any official offer yet,” Cury told Iram News.

He added: “Barcelona have not spoken to me, but they have spoken to the Real Betis board about their interest in signing Natan this summer. If Betis receive a good offer, I think he could leave.”

Barcelona are expected to make a move for another defender before the transfer window closes, after allowing Ronald Araujo to join Liverpool on loan.

Flick’s current central defensive options include Pau Cubarsi, Andreas Christensen, Gerard Martin and Eric Garcia. Jules Kounde can also operate in the position, but Barcelona are understood to remain keen to strengthen their defence before the end of the summer market.

Natan, a 25-year-old Brazilian, has made 64 appearances in La Liga, scoring once and providing one assist. He is regarded as one of the strongest defenders in the competition outside Barcelona and Real Madrid.

The defender spent the 2024-25 season on loan at Real Betis from Napoli before making his move to the Spanish club permanent in the summer of 2025.

Since arriving at Betis, Natan has played 97 matches for the club, scoring two goals and creating three more. That total includes 45 appearances in all competitions during the 2025-26 campaign.

He previously made six Champions League appearances during his time with Napoli and has also gained experience in the Europa League and UEFA Conference League with Real Betis.

Natan still has four seasons remaining on his contract with Betis, but his future has become the subject of growing speculation in recent weeks.

Barcelona have completed three signings so far during the summer transfer window, bringing in Anthony Gordon, Karim Adeyemi and Jesse Bisseck. However, the club are expected to consider further defensive reinforcements before the market shuts.

Cury’s comments indicate that interest in Natan has not yet developed into a formal bid. Any potential move will depend on whether Barcelona decide to make an offer that Real Betis consider acceptable, and whether the defender is allowed to leave despite having a long-term contract with the club.