Barcelona target Manchester City, Manchester United stars as club decide to strengthen defence

Barcelona target Manchester City, Manchester United stars as club decide to strengthen defence In a major development, Mundo Deportivo reports that Barcelona are planning to strengthen their defence in the January transfer window after consecutive defeats against PSG and Real Madrid exposed concerns over their defensive depth. The Catalan club are looking for an experienced centre-back capable of making an immediate impact, with four players, including Josko Gvardiol of Manchester City and Lisandro Martinez of Manchester United emerging as potential targets. Barcelona prioritise experienced centre-back after PSG and Real Madrid defeats Barcelona’s run of 11 consecutive victories, comprising nine in La Liga and two in the Champions League, came to an abrupt end following defeats against PSG and Real Madrid. Both matches highlighted defensive weaknesses that the club were unable to address in the summer window. Hansi Flick instead opted to retain Andreas Christensen alongside Pau Cubarsi and Gerard Martin, while Eric Garcia emerged as a solution at right-back. Jules Kounde was also considered an option in central defence. Barcelona seek an experienced defender. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) The latest setbacks, coupled with injuries, have strengthened Barcelona’s determination to address the problem in January. The club want a centre-back with experience and the ability to deliver immediately, particularly against elite opposition in La Liga and the Champions League. Gvardiol and Bastoni lead Barcelona’s ambitious defensive shortlist Josko Gvardiol is Barcelona’s dream target. The 24-year-old Manchester City defender has the approval of the club’s decision-makers and offers the additional advantage of being able to play at left-back. However, a deal would be extremely difficult. Gvardiol signed a contract extension with the Cityzens until 2031 last summer, leaving the Premier League club in a strong negotiating position. Barcelona’s most realistic opening could arise if Manchester City face a significant sporting or sanction over their alleged financial irregularities before the January transfer window closes. Bastoni back on the agenda. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images) Another defender on Barcelona’s radar is Alessandro Bastoni . The 27-year-old Inter Milan centre-back was also considered during the summer and would offer experience at the highest level. Bastoni’s contract runs until June 2028, however, and convincing Inter to negotiate his departure midway through the season is expected to be difficult. Lisandro Martinez and Natan emerge as more attainable alternatives Barcelona are also considering alternatives who could prove more accessible in the winter market. Lisandro Martinez , the 28-year-old Argentina international at Manchester United, is one possibility. His contract is due to expire in June, potentially giving the Red Devils an incentive to consider a sale rather than risk losing him without a transfer fee. Lisandro Martinez’s contract expires in 2027. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images) Nevertheless, Barcelona will be wary of his injury record before exploring the possibility of a deal. Natan of Real Betis is another option. The 25-year-old Brazilian left-footed centre-back impressed last season as the Verdiblancos secured Champions League qualification and has continued to perform well in the current campaign. His estimated price is around €30 million, potentially rising through additional variables. That would still represent a significant investment for Barcelona. But his age, recent performances and experience in Spanish football could make him an appealing alternative to the more difficult targets.