Barcelona are looking to strengthen their defence in January, with Manchester City’s Josko Gvardiol and Manchester United’s Lisandro Martinez among four reported targets, according to Mundo Deportivo.
Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni and Real Betis defender Natan are also on the list as Barca look to address defensive problems exposed in recent defeats to PSG and Real Madrid.
No bid, agreement, or player decision has been reported, but Barcelona is assessing which option is most realistic in January.
Barcelona Seek Experienced Centre-Back After Defeats
Barcelona’s 11-game winning run, which included nine La Liga victories and two in the Champions League, came to an end with consecutive defeats to PSG and Madrid. The losses exposed concerns over the club’s defensive depth and made the need for reinforcements more pressing.
Hansi Flick has used Andreas Christensen alongside Pau Cubarsi and Gerard Martin, while Eric Garcia has played at right-back and Jules Kounde remains an option in central defence.
Injuries have also limited his choices, leaving Barcelona looking for a centre-back who can strengthen the squad immediately and make an impact from the start.
Gvardiol And Bastoni Present Difficult January Options
Gvardiol is reportedly Barcelona’s preferred target. The 24-year-old can play at centre-back or left-back, giving Flick another option in defence. However, Manchester City extended his contract until 2031 last summer, making a January deal difficult to negotiate.
A move could become more realistic if City faced a significant sporting or financial setback, although that remains speculative. Without a major change in circumstances, convincing the Premier League club to sell midway through the season would be difficult.
Bastoni presents a similar challenge. Barcelona considered the 27-year-old defender during the summer, but his contract with Inter Milan runs until June 2028. Inter have little reason to let him leave in January unless an offer meets their valuation.
Martinez And Natan Emerge As More Realistic Alternatives
Lisandro Martinez could be a more accessible option for Barcelona. The 28-year-old Argentina international is under contract with Manchester United until 2027, making his situation worth watching ahead of the summer.
However, his injury record remains a concern and could affect Barcelona’s decision on whether to pursue him in January. Natan is another defender on Barcelona’s shortlist.
The 25-year-old Brazilian is left-footed and impressed in his first season at Real Betis, helping the club qualify for the Champions League. He has continued to perform well this season, which has strengthened his case as a potential target.
Natan’s valuation is estimated at around €30 million, with add-ons potentially increasing the fee. That would still be a significant investment, but his age, recent form and experience in Spanish football could make him a more practical option than Gvardiol or Bastoni.
Barcelona’s decision will depend on their budget and whether the clubs involved are willing to negotiate. With four defenders on their shortlist, the club has several options to consider before deciding how to strengthen Flick’s defence in January.
