Barcelona are reportedly targeting Manchester United player Lisandro Martinez, and the Catalan club may offload Alejandro Balde to clear room for a new defender.
Manager Hansi Flick has dealt with various defensive injuries involving Andreas Christensen, Jules Kounde, Eric Garcia, and Xavi Espart.
Speaking on Friday about potential mid-season reinforcements, the 61-year-old German said: "We always look for what's best for the team. And we're doing that. We'll see, there are still a few weeks until the winter transfer window opens. If we can do something, maybe we will."
Barcelona were linked with Red Devils centre-back Martinez last week. The 28-year-old Argentine has experienced a difficult season both on and off the pitch. Martinez received a fine from United chiefs after criticizing the club board following a 2-0 defeat at Atletico Madrid last month. His form on the pitch has also dropped, and he received a red card yesterday during a 2-0 loss at Chelsea. Martinez holds a contract that expires at the end of the season, though United keep an option to extend it by another 12 months.
Because of strict LaLiga financial rules, Barcelona must sell a player before bringing in Martinez or any other newcomer in January. Spanish media outlet Marca reports that Balde stands out as the most likely candidate. The full-back drew links to Manchester United over the summer but preferred to remain and compete for his spot at Barcelona.
Despite numerous defensive injuries, manager Flick has shown hesitation in using Balde. The left-sided defender has featured in only three league matches this season and has not started once across any competition. During Saturday's 6-1 victory against Deportivo Alaves, Flick chose to give academy midfielder Brian Farinas a senior debut at full-back instead of turning to Balde.
Left-back has proven problematic for United. Luke Shaw has faced repeated injury struggles, forcing Diogo Dalot to step in out of position frequently. Balde, 23, has played 172 senior matches for Barcelona and provided 21 assists. He has secured three LaLiga titles and a Copa del Rey with his childhood club, alongside earning a spot in the Spanish top flight team of the season. Balde has also collected seven caps for Spain, although he missed their victorious World Cup squad.
