Barcelona is monitoring Nobel Mendy, a 21-year-old Senegalese and Guinea-Bissauan central defender, for a potential medium-term strategic operation. According to reports, the club is scrutinizing the domestic market for promising, low-cost talents and is closely following the progress of Mendy, who is currently on loan at Rayo Vallecano from Real Betis. His solid performances, which include 2 goals in 14 LaLiga appearances this season, have been noted by the Catalan club's sporting management, which is considering him as a possible defensive reinforcement for future seasons. Mendy's contract at Real Betis expires on June 30, 2027. Transfermarkt estimates his market value to be €6.00m. Reports in December 2025 indicated that Rayo Vallecano would exercise a purchase option for almost €5 million for 80% of the player's rights.