Barcelona offered the services of Chelsea, Manchester City defenders ahead of January window | OneFootball

Barcelona are mulling over whether to enter the January transfer market to strengthen their defence.

The club have 20 days to process Andreas Christensen’s long-term injury, which would allow them to sign a player using 80 per cent of the Dane’s salary, and they are studying options in case action is required.

There are not many possibilities that fit in what is a very complicated transfer window, but the sporting department is looking towards the Premier League, where an opportunity could arise.

Nathan Ake, Axel Disasi offered to Barcelona

Several intermediaries and agents have offered options such as Nathan Ake of Manchester City or Axel Disasi of Chelsea to Barcelona, reports SPORT.

What both Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco are clear about is that a signing will only be made if the player has the quality to help the team and create competition in the starting eleven, and if the financial conditions are right.

Ake is on the market, as he is not getting many minutes at Manchester City and would like a more prominent role in order to go to the World Cup as a starter for the Netherlands under Ronald Koeman.

The Dutchman can play as a left-sided centre-back or as a full-back, which would add versatility. The main problem is that Man City want a permanent transfer deal and, in addition, the defender has other significant offers within the Premier League.

Axel Disasi offered to Barcelona. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Another name that has been offered is that of Disasi. Chelsea, with an excess of centre-backs, have left him unregistered despite having paid €45 million for him three years ago.

Last season, the French international performed well on loan at Aston Villa, and he wants playing time to maintain his chances of going to the World Cup. He is a very physical centre-back with imposing height.

AC Milan have shown interest in Disasi, although the player is determined to wait in case an option to join Barcelona arises.

Barcelona not rushing things

Barcelona will not rush under any circumstances, convinced that an interesting opportunity could appear in the final days of the window.

Internally, the club also have alternatives, such as moving Eric Garcia back into the centre-back position and giving more continuity to Marc Bernal in defensive midfield.

In addition, Gavi is expected to return from injury in mid-February, which would add another player to the midfield area and give Garcia more freedom.

Flick also wants to assess the condition of Ronald Araujo, who is due to return to training on 29 December. The evaluation of the Uruguayan defender could also influence whether or not Barcelona go to the market.

For now, the club are gathering information on options because they are aware that if another setback occurs in defence, the situation would become critical and impossible to resolve from February onwards.