It is not impossible that ‘extraordinary’ Barcelona player leaves after links with Newcastle

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Newcastle United have been given a bit of a boost in their pursuit of a Barcelona defender who could be on the move this summer.

Eddie Howe’s side need to look for more experienced players to take them to the next level in the new season and may look at capitalising on Barcelona’s financial struggles.

Speaking to Caught Offside, journalist Ben Jacobs claimed that it is ‘not impossible’ that Andreas Christensen will leave Barcelona amid links to Newcastle despite his desire to stay.

Barcelona star does not want to leave

Christensen joined the Spanish giants almost two years ago now after leaving Chelsea for free once his contract expired, and he has played a key role for Xavi’s side ever since.

The problem is that Barcelona are really struggling financially and therefore need to sell players to recoup some money, and they have already made it clear that the young talents and superstars are not going anywhere.

This leaves Christensen in a tricky position as the understanding is that the centre-back does not want to leave, but he may not have an option.

Newcastle have been interested in bringing the Danish international to St James’ Park since last season, though now they will have to rival Manchester United who are looking to replace Raphael Varane this summer.

On Christensen, Jacobs said: “Sources say it’s not impossible Andreas Christensen is sold even though the player is reluctant to depart – which seems to be common amongst potential outgoings.”

Christensen would be perfect fit at Newcastle

Newcastle are already exploring possible defensive options for the summer after really struggling to keep the ball out of their own net this season, and ideally they’d bring in an experienced head.

Christensen left Chelsea the summer after they had won the Champions League and last year won the league with Barcelona, so it’s safe to say he knows what it takes to battle against Europe’s elite.

The defender could be an ideal replacement for Fabian Schar who has been brilliant for Newcastle this season, though he won’t be a long-term option as he turns 32-years-old this year.

Newcastle still have some way to go to persuade Christensen that Tyneside is perfect for his next challenge and ideally they’ll have European football to offer him next season.