Barcelona looking at short-term centre back solution in January – Romano

According to transfer market specialist Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona are actively discussing the possibility of signing a new defender during the winter window, following internal conversations involving head coach Hansi Flick.

The situation has gained urgency after the serious injury suffered by Andreas Christensen. 

His setback has left Barcelona light at centre-back, prompting the club to reassess their short-term needs. 

As Romano explains, the idea of bringing in an additional defender is no longer casual talk, but something that is being seriously evaluated behind closed doors.

Before addressing expectations around the profile of any potential signing, Romano made it clear that Barcelona’s approach will be cautious and shaped by opportunity rather than ambition. 

This means that the fans should not expect Barcelona to go for a super big name.

Rather than chasing a headline signing, the club are exploring market opportunities that could make sense in January. 

While no name has been mentioned so far, a loan deal, or a low-cost option with room to manoeuvre within La Liga’s financial rules, is far more likely than a major investment.

No big names

Christensen’s injury has changed everything for Barcelona. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

In recent weeks, several defenders have been linked with Barcelona in media reports. 

Names such as Nico Schlotterbeck and Marc Guehi have been mentioned repeatedly. 

However, the idea of either arriving this winter. While both players are admired by the club, they are viewed as part of a longer-term plan rather than immediate January solutions.

Indeed, Barcelona are already tracking multiple centre-backs with the idea of making a more significant defensive signing in the summer of 2026. 

That is where the club believe a “big name” addition could realistically happen. 

January, by contrast, is about covering gaps and ensuring Flick has enough options to navigate a demanding second half of the season.

Romano reiterated that discussions with Flick are ongoing and focused specifically on the impact of Christensen’s ACL injury. 

The club want to avoid unnecessary risk and are weighing whether the current squad can cope, or if an extra defender is essential to maintain competitiveness across all competitions.