Barcelona’s Defensive Reshuffle: Potential Transfers and Goalkeeper Uncertainty

João Cancelo’s situation has garnered significant attention since his departure from Manchester City to Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia, and it seems his time in the Middle East may be brief. Fabrizio Romano reports that Inter Milan has initiated discussions with Al-Hilal regarding a possible loan arrangement for the full-back. In addition, both Barcelona and Juventus have reached out to inquire about his current status.

Cancelo’s affinity for Barcelona is well known. The Portuguese international had an impactful loan spell at Camp Nou during the 2023–24 season, creating a strong connection with the club. This was particularly evident during the Club World Cup last summer, where he faced hostility from Real Madrid supporters, revealing his emotional ties to the Catalan club.

He expressed, “I’m a Barca fan, it’s normal. I love Barca. I loved my time at Barca. I love the group at Barca. But now I’m at Al-Hilal and I’m very happy here.”

Initially, Barcelona was expected to remain inactive in the January transfer window due to financial fair play constraints. However, the recent long-term injury to Andreas Christensen has necessitated a change in strategy. While the club’s primary focus was to secure a central defender, Cancelo’s versatility has made him a renewed target. His ability to play as a right-back, left-back, or even in midfield provides valuable options for Barcelona, a luxury they currently lack.

Cancelo is not the only defender being considered for a move to Camp Nou. Nathan Ake has emerged as another viable candidate as Barcelona searches for experienced yet affordable options. The Manchester City defender has seen limited playing time this season, with just 596 minutes on the pitch, and is reportedly open to a January transfer. City is understood to be willing to let Ake go for approximately £21 million ($28 million), but Barcelona’s financial situation may necessitate structuring any deal as a loan. Interest in Ake is not confined to Spain, as Bournemouth, Newcastle United, and Crystal Palace are also monitoring his availability. However, Barcelona’s allure and Hansi Flick’s plans could prove pivotal in securing his services.

The defensive uncertainty at Barcelona is not limited to outfield players. Marc-André ter Stegen’s position as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper is now under scrutiny after more than a decade. Recent fitness issues and the emergence of summer recruit Joan Garcia have relegated the German to a secondary role. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, regular playing time is becoming increasingly crucial for Ter Stegen. Girona has publicly shown interest, and Aston Villa is reportedly considering a move as well.

Flick has emphasized that any decision regarding Ter Stegen’s future ultimately lies with the goalkeeper. He remarked, “Marc is the captain and has played many games in the 12 years he has been here. We talked with the rest of the coaches and wanted to give him the opportunity to play. He is back; it is only for this match, and I think it is a good next step. He is the team captain, and he must be respected.”

Interest from Aston Villa is closely linked to uncertainty surrounding Emiliano Martínez, with the World Cup winner being connected to potential moves away from the club. This situation prompts Unai Emery to explore elite alternatives should his number one goalkeeper depart. A transition to the Premier League would provide Ter Stegen with consistent exposure at the highest level, especially as Villa competes for a Champions League spot.

With Cancelo potentially on the move, Ake available, and Ter Stegen contemplating his future, Barcelona’s January transfer window is shaping up to be far more active than initially expected. The Catalan side will next take to the pitch on Saturday against Espanyol in a derby clash before heading to the Middle East for the Supercopa de España.