Defender Andreas Christensen could be a surprise option for the Barcelona midfield this season, as the club aims to move on from Sergio Busquets.
The 27-year-old is typically a centre-back, but the possible arrival of Inigo Martinez, as well as reports that right-back Jules Kounde wants to move to the middle, means that Barcelona are well stocked in the centre of defence.
Ilkay Gundogan has confirmed his move to the Camp Nou, and there have also been links with Dani Parejo, but moving Christensen to a midfield role could be an alternative option for Xavi.
Barcelona’s financial issues may prevent them from spending heavily this summer, and internal solutions may have to be considered to improve the squad.
A report in SPORT has mooted the idea, which could see Barcelona save money in the transfer market, and the 27-year-old play to his strengths.
A new role for the Dane
Christensen has only played in midfield a handful of times, but his skillset could be ideal for Barcelona next season.
His strong passing and dribbling ability ranks him highly when compared to European centre-backs, and his size and strength could provide a strong platform for the rest of the midfield to thrive.
Gundogan and Pedri could play alongside him in the midfield trio, and both could be allowed to push further forward with the Denmark international covering the space behind them.
If Barcelona do not choose to sign an additional midfielder, they will still have a number of natural options they could use in the Busquets role. But if they do struggle to replicate the defensive work of the Spaniard, then Xavi could help Christensen adapt to a new position and role.
Christensen, a Champions League winner with Chelsea, delivered some excellent displays as Barcelona won La Liga last season, and if he is able to add more versatility to his game, he could prove to be an invaluable member of the Blaugrana squad.
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