Exclusive: Barcelona do not see a new centre-back as a priority for January

Exclusive: Barcelona do not see a new centre-back as a priority for January FC Barcelona had a memorable summer transfer window, with the club making some vital additions to improve the squad at manager Hansi Flick’s disposal. There was some disappointment, though, with the club failing to land their priority centre-forward target, Julian Alvarez, as well as their failed attempt to rope in a new centre-back. It must be remembered that the Blaugrana explored a late deal for a new defender during the final days of the transfer window, with Ruud Nijstad of FC Twente being the main target , but their efforts proved futile. As such, it was speculated that the La Liga champions could return to the market in January to reinforce the position. Not a priority for January However, according to journalist Adrian Sanchez, as revealed exclusively to Barça Universal , Barcelona do not see the signing of a new centre-back as a priority for the January transfer window. As things stand, the Catalans have Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Martin, and Andreas Christensen as their primary centre-backs, given that Eric Garcia has become a permanent starter at right-back. Jules Kounde, too, is an option, having been tested in his original position as central defender by Flick during training. But he remains a primary alternative to Garcia in the right-back slot. This essentially leaves Barça with only the trio of Cubarsi, Martin, and Christensen competing for the two berths in front of Joan Garcia. Despite the situation, as things stand, the signing of a new centre-back is not considered a priority by the Catalans. Situation will be assessed Barcelona wanted Nijstad in the summer. (Photo courtesy: X/fctwente) At the same time, however, Barcelona are not entirely closing the doors on the possibility of signing someone for the position. The plan is for the club to see how the current group of defenders fare in the first half of the season and decide based on their performances if there is a need for another player. Cubarsi, for his part, remains a permanent fixture in the team, while Martin has convinced in his new role as a makeshift centre-back. Christensen, too, has looked reliable this season having put his injury troubles behind, with Flick counting heavily on him . So, for now, there is no urgency within the club to sign a new central defender.