Barca forced to sign a centre-back

With Samuel Umtiti out of action for a long time, Barcelona were considering whether to dive into the winter transfer market to see if they can land a central defender of suitable quality and features. However, with Thomas Vermaelen now also out, the situation has apparently made the decision for them, according to Sport. Gerard Pique and Clement Leglet remain as the only available pair.

There is the option of giving their “B” side player Chumi a chance. Chumi has already been involved with the first team this season and has done well. But manager Ernesto Valverde apparently insists on having a more experienced player there.

Ajax’s youngster Matthijs de Ligt has been linked with a move to Camp Nou for a while, but Barcelona face tough competition from top clubs around Europe for the young Dutchman, and the Eredivisie club likely won’t do business before the season is over. Andreas Christensen has come up as the preferred target.