Raphinha renewal gives Barcelona room to strengthen defence in January

Barcelona are preparing to make an urgent move in the January transfer window if required, with the club exploring ways to reinforce their defence while creating greater financial flexibility under La Liga’s financial fair play regulations.

According to Spanish newspaper Sport, the Catalan club are looking to sign a centre-back. The renewal of Raphinha’s contract is expected to provide Barcelona with additional room to operate in the market.

The Brazil international has extended his deal until 2030, with his salary restructured across the contract. That arrangement is expected to increase the space available to Barcelona under the financial rules.

“There is a surplus, but it is very limited, between €3m and €4m,” Barcelona vice-president Ferran Olive said in an interview with the Que t’hi jugues! programme on Cadena SER.

Barcelona’s financial margin is expected to improve further as a result of Raphinha’s new agreement. His salary will be lower until the end of the current season because part of his earnings will be distributed across future campaigns.

That would give the club several possibilities in January, although a major permanent signing would remain difficult. Barcelona would not be able to afford both a substantial transfer fee and the salary of a top-level player, but they could consider alternatives such as a loan deal.

A similar arrangement helped bring Joao Cancelo to Barcelona during the previous winter transfer window from the Saudi Pro League. The club later completed a permanent agreement for the Portugal defender, signing him for three seasons during the summer.

Lisandro Martinez is among the players who could fit Barcelona’s plans. His contract with Manchester United runs until 30 June 2027, meaning he would be able to negotiate with other clubs from January.

The Argentine defender’s disagreement with Manchester United manager Michael Carrick could also make a departure from Old Trafford easier, according to the report. Manchester United would not be in a strong position to demand a large fee for the player, while Martinez could initially join Barcelona on a reduced salary, with the remaining financial difference settled at a later stage.

Barcelona’s need for defensive cover has become more pressing following a recent wave of injuries. Jules Kounde, Eric Garcia and Andreas Christensen are all nearing the end of their recovery programmes, but manager Hansi Flick still has limited options at centre-back.

That shortage has encouraged Flick to avoid taking unnecessary risks as Barcelona attempt to remain competitive in every competition. With their financial position still restricted, the club are considering a range of solutions before deciding whether to act in January.