Andreas Christensen: Newcastle will return for ex-Chelsea star in summer if they can’t agree January deal – sources
Newcastle United will return for Barcelona defender Andreas Christensen in the summer window if they can’t land him this month, sources have told Football Insider.
Football Insider revealed on Monday (8 January) that the Magpies are monitoring Christensen’s situation at the La Liga giants ahead of a potential January deal.
Eddie Howe’s side are keen to add a new centre-back and the 27-year-old ex-Chelsea star features high on their wanted list.
But it is believed it will be a hard deal to do for Newcastle in January due to their Financial Fair Play restrictions.
The St James’ Park outfit are prioritising an arrival in central midfield in the winter window following Sandro Tonali’s ban and several injuries in the middle of the park.
A loan deal for Christensen is also unlikely, with Barcelona unwilling to leave themselves short at centre-back as they prepare for a La Liga title race and participation in the Champions League knockout stages.
But Barca will be open to permanent offers in the summer window to help their financial situation as they eye up new arrivals.
A well-placed source has told Football Insider that Howe is a “big admirer” of the Denmark international.
Christensen has made 20 appearances across all competitions this season but has been brought in and out of the starting lineup by Barcelona boss Xavi.
The defender started his senior career at Chelsea, making 161 appearances during his time at Stamford Bridge and winning the Champions League, FA Cup and Europa League during his time with the Blues.
He departed London for Catalonia 18 months ago and helped the European giants win La Liga last term.
Newcastle now have Sven Botman and Fabian Schar back at full fitness following recent fitness issues for the first-choice centre-back pairing.
The Magpies sit ninth in the Premier League table after 20 games.
In other news, Newcastle want “world domination” as Howe replacement eyed up.