The final days of the transfer window are once again proving chaotic across Europe, with clubs scrambling to strengthen their squads before the deadline.
Barcelona have been juggling their squad and finances in recent weeks, trying to balance La Liga’s strict financial fair play demands while keeping hold of key players.
The Catalan giants registered several names late, and Hansi Flick has been clear that he wants to avoid losing young prospects who have shown their worth in pre-season and the early stages of the campaign.
At the same time, rival clubs across the continent are circling, knowing that Barca’s financial situation could open the door for bargain signings in the final stretch of the market.
Now, one of the club’s established first-team defenders has become the focus of serious late interest, with Italian giants preparing a substantial offer.
According to Fichajes, AC Milan are ready to splash out €30m (£26m) to sign Andreas Christensen before the window slams shut.
Last week it was reported the Italian side was looking at the Dane, but it looks like they are ready to splash the cash.
The Denmark international, who is now in the final year of his contract at Camp Nou, has attracted attention as the Rossoneri look to bolster their backline after a disappointing campaign which saw them finish eighth and miss out on Champions League qualification.
Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri has identified Andreas Christensen as the experienced figure he wants to anchor his defence, with the Serie A side prepared to move swiftly to get the deal done.
For Barcelona, the possible sale comes amid pressure to raise funds.
Youngsters such as Marc Casado and Fermin Lopez had been tipped for potential exits, but Flick has shown his reluctance to part ways with them, even handing Casado a start in the recent clash with Levante.
Chelsea have also been keeping tabs on Fermin, but the German coach views him as an important option in midfield and is pushing back against a departure.
That leaves Christensen as a potential solution, but the move would come with risks.
Inigo Martinez has already left for Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, leaving Flick wary of being short in defence.
If Christensen were to depart, Flick would be left with Ronald Araujo, Pau Cubarsi and Eric Garcia as his senior centre-backs, with Jules Kounde also capable of filling in.
However, the squad would look dangerously thin, forcing Barca either to dip into La Masia talent or move quickly in the market.
The decision could prove crucial for Barcelona’s season, balancing the immediate need for funds with Flick’s determination to keep the squad competitive on all fronts.
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