Barça reconsider move for Chelsea defender due to Matthijs de Ligt development

Chelsea defender Andreas Christensen is in the final year of his contract and has been linked with a move to Barcelona for some time now.

The Blues academy graduate has grown into a vital cog at Stamford Bridge especially under the tutelage of Thomas Tuchel. As a result, they are hoping to tie him down to a new long-term deal.

However, SPORT claims that the Danish international is intent on signing for Barcelona, who are also keen on the defender. The report states that Barça had been eyeing a move for Christensen since last January, with a loan move being discussed but not going through because of the presidential elections.

But talks between the Catalans and the Chelsea ace have continued and the centre-back is believed to be attracted to the prospect of signing for the club on a free transfer next summer. The report goes as far as suggesting that an agreement between the two parties is very close, with Christensen even rejecting multiple offers from Chelsea over a renewal.

However, now, there is believed to be a fresh twist as Barça are reconsidering making a move for the Danish ace. It is because one of their long-term transfer targets, Matthijs de Ligt, could become available in the summer, after deciding to leave Juventus at the end of the season.

The Dutchman’s potential availability has alerted Barcelona, who are contemplating launching an offer for him next summer. Should they go after him, the Catalans would not be in a position to sign Christensen as well, leading to a roadblock in negotiations with the Dane.

With the club now dithering, the Chelsea star, as per the report, wants Barcelona to make a decision by January. In case they do not, the 25-year-old would entertain the contract offers from Chelsea or look at other options, with Bayern Munich and Juventus also interested.

The Blaugrana admire Christensen for his ball-playing ability and the fact that he can be signed on a free transfer makes him an appealing prospect. But, de Ligt’s potential availability means has now cast doubts over a move.