FC Barcelona have drawn up a shortlist of two top defenders for potential moves in the January transfer window.
The flawless opening stretch of FC Barcelona’s 2026/27 campaign under Hansi Flick has established a commanding six-point advantage at the top of La Liga.
However, behind the dominant tactical display, the central defensive rotation faces immediate structural scrutiny following recent medical setbacks.
With the winter transfer window approaching, sporting director Deco has actively intensified market assessments to avoid compromising the club’s trophy ambitions.
According to an update published by Diario Sport, the primary target at the top of Deco’s agenda is Spanish international Aymeric Laporte.
Available for an affordable €15 million release clause, the 32-year-old boasts established chemistry with Pau Cubarsí and offers elite left-footed ball progression, making him the immediate priority to replace Andreas Christensen.
Meanwhile, Inter Milan mainstay Alessandro Bastoni remains highly admired, though his valuation makes a mid-season move complex.
In parallel, 19-year-old Athletico Paranaense sensation Arthur Dias is being actively scouted as a promising long-term option.
Standing at 1.88 meters, the ambidextrous center-back combines dominant aerial prowess with extraordinary composure under pressure.
Aymeric Laporte’s arrival would provide immediate tactical stability, allowing Gerard Martín and Eric García to continue their growth without being overburdened.
However, potential negotiations could prompt squad adjustments, as Deco balances La Liga’s fair-play regulations alongside squad harmony.
On the other hand, tracking a raw, high-upside profile like Arthur Dias underlines Barcelona’s commitment to pairing immediate success with continuous academy and youth talent integration.
With Gerard Martín stepping up in the interim and contract renewal talks progressing positively, Barcelona’s leadership remains focused on maintaining defensive balance.
Should market conditions permit, Deco is prepared to execute a targeted mid-season move to ensure Flick’s squad retains world-class depth across all competitions.
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