Barcelona Eyes Three Star Defenders to Fill Andreas Christensen's Injury Void
Barcelona may need to seek defensive reinforcements during the January transfer window after receiving devastating news about Andreas Christensen's injury.
After an impressive performance against Guadalajara in the Copa del Rey, the Danish defender suffered a partial ACL tear during training and faces a three to four-month recovery period.
This leaves Pau Cubarsí and Eric García as the only natural center-backs available to Hansi Flick, at least until Ronald Araújo returns from his extended absence.
In recent matches, La Masia left-back Gerard Martín has excelled when partnering with Cubarsí in central defense, while Jules Koundé can also operate in that position. However, Barcelona are walking a tightrope, and another defensive setback could severely damage their championship hopes for the remainder of the season.
Flick confirmed he will discuss with sporting director Deco regarding Barça's transfer window strategy. Major signings weren't initially planned, but Christensen's setback may compel Barcelona to revise their plans.
Should Barcelona genuinely aim to compete for all available trophies this campaign, then securing a defender in January could prove crucial. Here are three potential targets Barcelona might consider to strengthen their defensive line.
1. Nico Schlotterbeck
Barcelona have maintained strong interest in Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck since the previous summer. The imposing German was among the targets Barcelona planned to pursue for the 2026–27 campaign, but the club might now consider fast-tracking their interest.
Schlotterbeck would complement Cubarsí perfectly, serving as the ideal replacement for the gap left by Iñigo Martínez's unexpected move to the Saudi Pro League in August. The 26-year-old commands Dortmund's defensive line and has evolved into a genuinely world-class performer.
His left-footed profile makes him particularly attractive to Barcelona, as it would enable Cubarsí to operate as a right-sided center-back, his preferred position.
The obstacle is that Dortmund will likely demand a substantial fee for Schlotterbeck's departure, particularly during the winter window with other clubs also circling. Given Barcelona's challenging financial circumstances, a significant transfer outlay seems highly unlikely.
While he represents a dream acquisition, Barcelona would probably need to wait until the summer to seriously pursue Schlotterbeck, concentrating instead on more affordable, realistic options in January.
2. Luiz Benedetti
Luiz Benedetti has used 2025 to cement his reputation as one of Brazil's most promising young players, with Barcelona reportedly monitoring the 19-year-old Palmeiras center-back closely.
Benedetti possesses impressive physicality, standing at 6'6", making him a dominant presence during aerial duels. However, his mobility and technical skills are equally impressive, which is uncommon for someone of his stature. While still developing, his potential is unmistakable.
Pursuing Benedetti in January would provide Barcelona with essential defensive depth while securing a player who could become a future star. He might not feature prominently this season, but could relieve pressure on other defenders as he continues developing.
Barcelona previously signed Vitor Roque from Palmeiras in 2024, their most recent January acquisition. Repeating this approach two years later deserves serious consideration.
3. Héctor Fort
Bringing back right-back Héctor Fort from his season-long stint at Elche might represent Barcelona's most logical January move.
The La Masia product is enjoying an excellent campaign with the promoted side. Barcelona sent Fort on loan during the summer to ensure regular minutes, but considering their current defensive shortage, the 19-year-old could provide significant assistance.
While Fort isn't a natural center-back, his return would allow García to concentrate solely on central defending and enable Koundé to shift inside when necessary. Essentially, Fort would immediately enhance Barcelona's defensive flexibility, permitting Flick to maximize his squad's versatility.
The original plan involved Fort returning next season, but his current form indicates he's ready to contribute immediately if called upon.
Given the minimal cost, his club familiarity, and the tactical flexibility he would provide, recalling Fort in January should be an obvious decision for Barcelona.