CN Barcelona are gearing up for a busy transfer window this summer, with strong rumours linking the prestigious Spanish club to two standout performers from the French League —Japanese international Taiyo Watanabe of Pays d’Aix Natation and Spanish international Nikolas Paul Garcia from Sète Natation.
Nikolas Paul Garcia, after just one season at Sète, appears poised for a return to Catalonia. The talented Spaniard, who joined the French outfit from Barceloneta last summer, is expected to bolster CN Barcelona’s attacking lineup. Garcia’s return to Barcelona signals another significant chapter in his career within Spain’s Liga, having previously gained valuable experience at Sant Andreu and Barceloneta, the latter between 2022 and 2024.
Garcia’s addition would provide proven quality and familiarity with the competitive landscape of Spanish water polo, enhancing Barcelona’s ambitions for both domestic and European success.
Meanwhile, Taiyo Watanabe, currently the top scorer in the French Elite Championship, is reportedly set to leave Pays d’Aix at the conclusion of this season.
The Japanese forward has publicly confirmed his departure, expressing his readiness to embrace a new challenge in Spain. Watanabe’s prolific scoring and dynamic attacking prowess have placed him firmly on the radar of CN Barcelona, who are aiming to strengthen their squad after finishing third in the Liga this year.
Watanabe’s journey began at age eight, quickly rising through the ranks to represent Japan’s national youth teams by 17, and becoming a full international by 21. His transition to the Spanish league represents a significant step in his career, promising excitement for fans of the Catalan club.
Pays d’Aix currently hold second position in the French League, while Sète are positioned fifth. CN Barcelona, eager to bridge the gap to Spain’s top spot, are strategically moving to secure these high-profile acquisitions.
With both players expected to finalize their moves soon, CN Barcelona fans have plenty to look forward to as the club prepares to challenge for titles in the upcoming season.