Article by Aurelian Botezatu – Published Wednesday, December 24, 2025 3:05 p.m. / Updated Wednesday, December 24, 2025 3:48 p.m.
Coach Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco went on holiday for the Holidays but remained connected to Barcelona's needs. And at this point, bringing in a central defender is an emergency.
Barcelona want a left-footed central defender, preferably Latino
Dane Andreas Christensen has suffered a cruciate ligament injury and will be out for around 4-5 months, while Ronald Araujo's recovery from his recent mental problems doesn't even have a deadline.
The club had not set out to make any purchases this winter, but in this situation there is no turning back. According to daily Mundo Deportivo, Flick and Deco have established the profile of the player they want.
“An experienced centre-back, leadership qualities and preferably Latin, as the language is crucial for a quick adaptation. Left-footed is an advantage. A new Iñigo Martínez, in short,” explained the quoted publication.
Nicolas Otamendi is the favorite on the shortlist, which includes 3 names
However, the market is very limited in winter. However, there are three top names on Barcelona's list. First, Nicolas Otamendi (37 years old), from Benfica Lisboa, who perfectly fits the demands of the Catalans. The Argentine, whose contract with the Lusitanians expires in the summer, is right-handed, but he is also used to play on the left flank of the defense. In fact, with the Argentine national team he won the world title in 2022 as a central-left defender.
Nicolas Otamendi. PHOTO: Imago Images
Next on the list is Stefan de Vrij (33 years old), defender of Cristi Chivu at Inter. The Dutchman hasn't played much this season, but is valued for his experience. His contract with Inter expires in the summer.
The third of the candidates is a very respected and sought-after name: Marc Guehi. He will be out of contract in the summer, as he refused to extend his deal with CrystaL Palace, due in the summer. For the services of the French international, Barcelona has two formidable opponents: Bayern and the very high demands (salaries, installation premium) of the player.
