Flick has his eye on nine players.

 

Barcelona are preparing for a crucial summer as new manager Hansi Flick begins to evaluate his squad of players.

The upcoming pre-season in particular could be crucial as it gives Flick the opportunity to closely monitor not only the first-team stars but also the younger players who could have an impact next season.

According to a report from Mundo Deportivo, Flick has his eye on nine players in particular.

Topping this list is Julian Araujo. After a fine loan spell at Las Palmas, Araujo has a golden opportunity to break into the first team next season, due to Barcelona's lack of a right-back.

Another full-back to watch is Alex Valle. After Marcos Alonso's departure, a space has opened up at left-back. In this respect,

Noah Darvic is a player to watch, especially for Hansi Flick in midfield. The new manager seems keen to incorporate the young German into Barcelona's squad next season.

Pablo Torre has also caught Flick's eye after returning from a loan spell at Girona. Torre has not been as impressive as Garcia, but the young midfielder will be given a chance to prove himself in pre-season.

In addition to Torre and Darvic, defensive midfielders such as Oriol Romeu and Marc Casado will also be in the spotlight.

Romeu has often been linked with a return to Girona, but Flick seems keen to take one last look at the veteran before making a decision on his future. Meanwhile,

Casado is tipped to be the potential replacement for Sergio Busquets within Barcelona. For that to happen, the youngster needs to make a solid impression in the pre-season preparations.

In attack, Flick seems ready to give Ansu Fati a second chance. The Spaniard, once considered Barcelona's future, has returned from a disappointing loan spell at Brighton & Hove Albion.

Recent reports suggest that Barcelona are keen to retain two returning players, Araujo and Eric Garcia, for the new season.