Barcelona’s plans for the winter transfer window are beginning to have some sort of clarity, especially when it comes to reinforcing the heart of their defence. According to a report from SPORT, th...
Barcelona’s plans for the winter transfer window are beginning to have some sort of clarity, especially when it comes to reinforcing the heart of their defence.
According to a report from SPORT, the Catalan club has ruled out the possibility of signing Nicolas Otamendi, despite recent speculation linking the Benfica captain with a move to Camp Nou.
The situation at centre-back is far from comfortable for Barcelona. The serious injury suffered by Andreas Christensen has left the Danish defender sidelined for at least four months.
On top of that, the continued absence of Ronald Araujo, who has not featured since late November due to mental health reasons, has significantly reduced the options.
Given this context, it was inevitable that several names would surface in the media. One of the most talked-about options was Otamendi.
Barcelona are not interested
As it turns out, any suggestion of Barcelona making a move was quickly dismissed from Portugal.
Barcelona are not interested in Otamendi. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)
In fact, it has been made very clear that there has been no contact between Barça and Benfica, no offer on the table, and no intention from the Blaugrana to pursue the Argentine defender.
Otamendi, now 37, remains under contract until the end of the season and is considered a key figure both on and off the pitch.
The Portuguese club are not contemplating his departure midway through the campaign.
Even figures close to the club have played down the rumours, insisting that there is no internal concern about the defender’s future and that his leadership remains highly valued.
For Barcelona, while the defensive shortcomings are clear, the club is determined not to compromise their long-term project with short-term solutions that do not fully convince from a sporting or financial perspective.
The winter market will be approached with caution, especially given the strict financial controls imposed by La Liga’s fair play regulations.
Category: General Sports
