Barcelona have reportedly turned to Serie A as they search for reinforcements following Andreas Christensen’s knee injury.
Christensen suffered an injury in training ahead of Barca’s trip to Villarreal, twisting his left knee while trying to perform a quick change of direction.
After a thorough investigation, the club confirmed that the defender had suffered a partial tear of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) in his left knee.
The Blaugrana are treating Christensen’s injury conservatively and have not shared a potential date of return. An injury of such intensity can rule a player out for around four or five months.
Additionally, Ronald Araujo has only returned to training after going on a self-requested month-long hiatus. It is unclear whether he is in the right frame of mind to compete at the highest level.
Barcelona Turn to Serie A After Christensen Injury
Barcelona are facing a crisis in defence and are internally discussing the possibility of reinforcing their defence in the January transfer window.
With Andreas Christensen ruled out for a lengthy spell, Barca have the option of asking LaLiga to use 80% of the player’s pending salary to sign a replacement.
According to Mundo Deportivo, the club’s sporting department are extensively scouting European leagues to identify potential reinforcement options.
They want to sign experienced players who are looking to leave their current clubs, due to friction with their managers, contractual situations, or a lack of minutes.
| : Joan Laporta is considering renewing Andreas Christensen’s contract for ONE MORE year with a reduced salary as a gesture of support. The defender was very affected emotionally after his latest injury. [@esport3] #fcblive pic.twitter.com/AQBSsczJxz
— BarçaTimes (@BarcaTimes) December 25, 2025
Above all, Barcelona want a defender who can adapt quickly to the demands of the league.
Bournemouth’s Marcos Senesi and Manchester City’s Nathan Ake are on their shortlist, but neither option is straightforward.
While Bournemouth are unlikely to sell Senesi in January, City could demand a significant fee for the player. Man City may also be reluctant to sell to a Champions League rival.
However, Barca have also been monitoring the German and Italian football markets. And the prospects look considerably brighter there.
Barcelona Shortlist Three Serie A Defenders
Inter Milan defender Stefan de Vrij is one of the most promising names on their shortlist.
He has not gotten enough minutes this season and is worried about his participation at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He is open to a change of scenery to cement his place in the Netherlands squad.
AC Milan’s Koni De Winter is also in the same boat. He has struggled for game time under Massimiliano Allegri and is reportedly seeking a January exit.
Keep an eye on Stefan de Vrij in January, who is starting to look around.
[via @NicoSchira] pic.twitter.com/xwE4H3TS8K
— Inter Xtra (@Inter_Xtra) December 29, 2025
Lastly, there is Napoli’s veteran defender Juan Jesus. He is in the final year of his contract and has recently fallen out of favour with coach Antonio Conte.
In Germany, Luka Vuskovic has captured Barcelona’s attention. He is on loan at Hamburg from Tottenham Hotspur and is only 18 years old.
However, with Flick seeking an experienced defender in January, Vuskovic is only considered a long-term target.
