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5 players Barcelona could sign in January

By Harry De Cosemo

LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 22: Luis Enrique manager of Barcelona speaks during a FC Barcelona press conference ahead of their UEFA Champions League round of 16 first leg match against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on February 22, 2016 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Matthew Lewis/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 22: Luis Enrique manager of Barcelona speaks during a FC Barcelona press conference ahead of their UEFA Champions League round of 16 first leg match against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on February 22, 2016 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Matthew Lewis/Getty Images) /
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PARIS, FRANCE – OCTOBER 23: Marquinhos of PSG in action during the French Ligue 1 match between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG and Olympique de Marseille (OM) at Parc des Princes stadium on October 23, 2016 in Paris, France. (Photo by Jean Catuffe/Getty Images)
PARIS, FRANCE – OCTOBER 23: Marquinhos of PSG in action during the French Ligue 1 match between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG and Olympique de Marseille (OM) at Parc des Princes stadium on October 23, 2016 in Paris, France. (Photo by Jean Catuffe/Getty Images) /

4. Marquinhos

There is certainly a pattern developing here. Even though Umtiti is doing well in central defence since his move from Lyon and Javier Mascherano signed a new contract, the backline could still need additions, particularly with Gerard Pique injured.

If you asked the Barcelona board, behind closed doors, who their dream defensive signing would be, chances are they would say Paris Saint-Germain’s Marquinhos, a player linked for a number of years, dating back to his time with Roma.

His ability on the ball, which, as a Brazilian, is unsurprising and has caught the eye of the LaLiga champions in the past. That, rather than his instincts to block a shot or clear the ball, is what makes him most suitable choice for Barça.

But, again, his age (22) is also a factor. More than any position, experience is key in central defence, and while Marquinhos has already played in some very high-level games for club and country, he has plenty of time to fulfil his potential, not to mention develop a long-term partnership with Pique or Umtiti.

He cost PSG around $35million in 2013 and has continued to improve, but since David Luiz left the Parc des Princes to return to Chelsea last summer he has found his feet and plays more regularly.

This deal is unlikely to happen now, but perhaps one day Marquinhos will sign on in Spain.

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