Barcelona face urgent defensive 'transfer' decisions after Andreas Christensen injury

This raises fresh questions over the club's plans for the January transfer window.

Christensen has been diagnosed with a partial tear of the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee, sustained during a training session just before Barcelona's match against Villarreal. The club confirmed he will follow a conservative treatment plan, with his recovery timeline likely stretching into the spring.

The Danish centre-back had appeared 17 times this season across all competitions, including scoring in Barcelona's Copa del Rey win over Guadalajara. His absence leaves a gap in a defence already coping without Ronald Araujo and adds pressure on younger options like Pau Cubarsi and Gerard Martin.

After Barcelona's win over Villarreal, manager Hansi Flick was asked about the club's options in the transfer market. Flick said he planned to speak with sporting director Deco soon about possible reinforcements. "I'll talk to Deco, maybe tomorrow, not today," he said. "For me, first and foremost, the important thing is that Andreas returns in good shape. We all have to support him. He was in very good form, and it's sad he's injured.

"I wish him all the best and hope he comes back soon."

Flick's remarks came amid speculation that Barcelona could use the injury to free up salary space and sign a temporary replacement under La Liga's emergency rule. However, reports from the club suggest that Deco and the board have yet to commit to signing a defender in January, citing uncertainty over available options and financial constraints.

Christensen's injury not only affects Barcelona's immediate defensive depth but also adds to uncertainty about his longer-term future, with his contract due to expire at the end of the season.