Barcelona has identified a cost-effective option to strengthen its defense

In the upcoming summer, Barcelona will bring back its academy graduate, Chadi Riad, from Betis, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The 20-year-old player is seen by the Catalans as an ideal reinforcement for the central defense. The club even believes that Riad could adequately replace Ronald Araujo if the Uruguayan accepts Bayern Munich's offer.

For Barcelona, the buy-back option for Riad is only 7 million euros. Additionally, Betis will receive 50% of the proceeds from the next sale of the Moroccan.

In the current season, Riad has played 15 matches for Betis in all competitions. In the previous season, he played for Barcelona B, and in the match against Osasuna (2:1), he made his debut for the first team.