Barcelona's defence under evaluation

FC Barcelona are set to assess their need for a new centre-back during the winter transfer window, following their failed attempt to sign Ruud Nijstad from Twente during the summer transfer window.

According to Spanish newspaper "Sport", FC Barcelona have entered negotiations with Twente regarding Ruud Nijstad, who is 18 years old. However, they have refused to pay around €8 million for a player with great potential who is still in the young talent stage.

Álvaro Cortés has left FC Barcelona for Royal Antwerp, without the club signing a replacement for him in the first team. The team currently has four centre-backs: Pau Kimpembe, Eric García, Andreas Christensen, and Gerard Martín.

Gerard Martin is the only left-footed centre-back, but Christensen and Eric Garcia can also play in this position. Christensen has previously played on the left side during the match against Rayo Vallecano.

FC Barcelona also have emergency options in midfield, most notably Ruud Nijstad, who previously played at centre-back for Spain during the FIFA World Cup 2022. Additionally, Frenkie de Jong can be utilized in this position during specific periods, although Flick relies on him in a more advanced role.

The sporting management led by Deco believes the team has good protection in the back line, especially with João Cancelo, Xavi Espart, and Brian Fariñas among the available options for the full-backs.

However, "Sport" has confirmed that FC Barcelona will evaluate the need to sign a central defender in January over the next four months, especially since Deco has several names on his agenda in anticipation of moving in the winter transfer market.