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Barcelona find cheaper alternatives for their defensive signings

By Nishant Narayanan

LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 21: Antonio Rudiger of Chelsea battles Shkodran Mustafi of Arsenal for a header during the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Arsenal FC at Stamford Bridge on January 21, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by James Williamson - AMA/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 21: Antonio Rudiger of Chelsea battles Shkodran Mustafi of Arsenal for a header during the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Arsenal FC at Stamford Bridge on January 21, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by James Williamson - AMA/Getty Images) /
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Barcelona find short-term solutions to their defensive issues.

Barcelona are hoping to solve their defensive problems with the arrival of Eric Garcia from Manchester City next season, however, they also need to fix their issues for this season as well. They do not have the funds to go after Garcia in January and in case they are unable to get Garcia due to wage or transfer negotiation problems, they need to keep a back up in mind.

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Barca has always been a bit weak at the back after the exit of Carles Puyol but the addition of Samuel Umtiti once again solidified their back lines. However, after his horrific knee injury, the French international could never regain his position on the pitch. He is still going through recovery and thus Barcelona has to scrap him from their plans. This only leaves them with Clement Lenglet, Gerard Pique, and Ronald Araujo.

The Catalan giants need a prolific defender much like Chelsea got for themselves. They need a solid defender who has international experience, good club experience, and leadership capabilities. The player should also be affordable or be willing only for a loan. No one apart from Antonio Rudiger fills all these criteria perfectly. The German defender is a born leader and is only 27 years of age. He has had a lot of experience playing for the German national team and has also captained Chelsea many times. He seems to be the perfect alternative for Garcia especially after Frank Lampard decided to sideline him in favor of Thiago Silva.

Although not perfect, Rudiger could be a solid replacement for Barcelona. They need a leader at the back and the German’s no-nonsense game style would suit this evolving Barcelona side. Garcia should of course remain their number one option but in case of any issues of unforeseen circumstances, the club should not hesitate in buying or loaning this outcast from Chelsea.

Sport has also reported that Rudiger is not the only one being considered with Liverpool’s Joel Matip and Arsenal’s Shkodran Mustafi also being named on the list. Federico Fazio of Roma along with German Pezzella of ACF Fiorentina are also being considered by the Spanish side.

Anyone arriving besides Garcia will most likely be a loan move as a short-term solution to help the club succeed for this season. While the coaching staff might prefer multiple signings, the presidential election in January will ultimately decide the fate of Blaugrana.

Next. 5 conditions listed by Lionel Messi for signing new Barcelona contract. dark

Should Barca sign short-term solutions or give Ronald Araujo and ‘B’ team players more opportunities?

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