Finances Force Barcelona to Target Crystal Palace Defender

Defensive Dilemma for Barcelona

A Spanish newspaper report, dated Wednesday, identified the closest defender to bolster Barcelona's backline for next summer's market.

Barcelona suffered a major blow with Danish defender Andreas Christensen's ACL tear, ruling him out at least for the rest of the season, his contract expiring at season's end.

According to Catalan newspaper Sport, there is concern about relying on Uruguayan Ronald Araujo, especially given his underwhelming form in big matches.

It has become clear that the Catalan club is in urgent need of a central defender who can restore balance to the back line.

Targeting a Proven Rock at Centre-Back

The paper noted that the sporting management led by Deco has been tasked with finding the defender best suited for Barcelona's system under Hans Flick.

The paper added that in recent weeks several names have appeared on Barcelona's table, including Nico Schlotterbeck of Borussia Dortmund, Pau Torres of Aston Villa, and Marc Guehi, Crystal Palace captain.

The paper indicated that the club’s preference leans toward Guehi, who delivered standout spells with Crystal Palace over the past two seasons, along with his contract status.

Guehi’s contract with his club runs out in June, making him a financially attractive option for Barcelona given their current finances.

Palace could consider selling him in January, fearing his departure on a free next summer.

Notably, Guehi was Liverpool's strong target last summer, but his club held on, unable to replace him.

Punchline: If Barcelona lands Guehi, their defense won’t just be solid—it’ll be a fortress. Punchline 2: And if not, at least the memes will be well defended.