FC Barcelona’s recent defeats have reopened a familiar discussion around the structure of Hansi Flick’s defence. The squad was strengthened heavily in midfield and attack during the summer, but the back line was left largely untouched after anticipated sales failed to generate enough room for further investment.
That decision has become more noticeable against elite opposition, with PSG and Real Madrid both finding ways to exploit Barça when possession was lost and the defensive line was forced to retreat quickly. The club are now considering whether January should be used to correct that imbalance.
According to [Mundo Deportivo](https://www.mundodeportivo.com/futbol/fc-barcelona/20261030/1004244678/barca-activa-operacion-central.html), among the names being discussed is Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez, who represents a very different type of target from Josko Gvardiol. The Croatian may be the dream option, but Martinez offers something Barcelona could potentially access much sooner: experience, aggression and familiarity with high-level possession football.
The appeal is easy to understand as Martinez is left-footed, comfortable stepping into midfield with the ball and aggressive when defending away from his own penalty area. Those characteristics suit a Barcelona side that asks centre-backs to defend large spaces while also helping construct attacks from deep.
He would also bring personality as Barca’s defence is technically gifted but still young in important areas. Pau Cubarsi has already become a reference point despite his age, while Gerard Martin and other options continue to develop. Martinez would offer a more experienced profile without forcing Flick to abandon the way he wants his team to play.
His situation at Manchester United could also make the conversation more realistic than it appears at first glance. According to the report, his contract position may encourage United to listen should they wish to avoid losing value later, although Barcelona would still need departures before committing significant funds.
There is one obvious concern as Martínez has dealt with several injury problems during his United career, including a long-term setback in 2025, and Barcelona cannot afford to spend heavily on another defender whose physical reliability is uncertain. Manchester United’s own profile of the player notes that injuries have interrupted multiple seasons.
Barcelona do not necessarily need the most glamorous centre-back available. They need someone who can enter Flick’s system immediately and reduce the chaos when games become stretched.
That is why Martinez is intriguing as he would bring bite, experience and progressive passing without requiring Barcelona to redesign the defensive structure around him. The question is whether his body can handle the demands of a high line and an intense calendar.
If Barca can satisfy themselves on that point, Martinez may represent something more valuable than a marquee January signing but he could be the practical one.