Barcelona have been rumoured to be in the market for a defender in the upcoming January transfer window. Although the Spanish giants are leading La Liga table at the moment, head coach Ernesto Valverde would still want to shore up his side’s defensive department in the winter transfer window.
There have been a lot of players linked with a move to Camp Nou this January. However, even though the Blaugrana have an array of options to choose from, they definitely need to be wise in terms of their signing the right player in order to further solidify their defence. Furthermore, recent injuries to star defenders Samuel Umtiti and Javier Mascherano has made it even more necessary for the Spanish league leaders to sign a defender this January.
Here are three players who could definitely make a mark at the Catalan outfit, if given the opportunity.
Kalidou Koulibaly – Napoli
Koulibaly is currently one of the most in-demand defenders in the Serie A right now. He has been one of the most important players behind Napoli’s meteoric rise this season as well as the past few seasons.
Over the years, the Senegalese International has transformed his game into a whole new level, especially under Maurizio Sarri. Initially known for his incredible strength and determination in the centre back position, Koulibaly is also a passing master for his side.
Much like Gerard Pique of Barcelona, the 26-year-old is very strong when it comes to defending the opposition and is equally reliable in passing too. Therefore, the addition of this defensive beast from Napoli could easily eradicate Barcelona’s defensive problems.
Marquinhos – PSG
Marquinhos has been high on Barca’s wishlist for quite some time now. The Brazilian defender has evolved as one of the Europe’s most diligent centre-backs, after initially arriving from Roma to PSG in 2013.
Along with fellow compatriot, Thiago Silva, the 23-year-old has built a strong and reliable defensive partnership in the PSG backline, which has hugely reignited the confidence of the French giants.
Marquinhos is a very highly rated defender, who could definitely aid Dortmund’s frailties, and at the age of just 23, the Brazilian bags a lot of promise and therefore could emerge as a huge future prospect for the Blaugrana.
Fabinho – AS Monaco
Fabinho’s versatility was one of the key factors which led to the impressive success story for AS Monaco last season. Following a summer full of transfer speculation, the Brazilian has so far remained put, to his current club.
However, that might not last long, as Fabinho is once again attracting a whole lot of attention thanks to his stunning performances in the Ligue 1 this season. Although he may not be a centre back, his composure coupled with his unmatched versatility could hand Barcelona an edge, on the defensive front.
