What happened: FC Barcelona has reportedly sent representative Alejandro Echevarría to Italy to meet with Como 1907 manager Cesc Fàbregas. The Catalan club is seeking a pre-agreement to install Fàbregas as the long-term successor to current head coach Hansi Flick, whose contract was recently extended through 2028.

Why it matters: While Flick has secured back-to-back La Liga titles and five total trophies since 2024, his hints at a 2028 retirement have prompted early succession planning. Fàbregas has seen a meteoric rise at Como, leading the club to a historic 4th-place Serie A finish and its first-ever Champions League qualification for the 2026-27 season.

What to watch: Fàbregas is expected to remain at Como for their debut Champions League campaign while Barcelona monitors Flick's tenure ahead of the 2028 transition.