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Barcelona have found their ideal Samuel Umtiti backup

By Kian Long

LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 04: Andreas Christensen of Chelsea looks on during the UEFA Europa League Group L match between Chelsea and Vidi FC at Stamford Bridge on October 4, 2018 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by TF-Images/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 04: Andreas Christensen of Chelsea looks on during the UEFA Europa League Group L match between Chelsea and Vidi FC at Stamford Bridge on October 4, 2018 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by TF-Images/Getty Images) /
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Samuel Umtiti is a great player for Barcelona but he isn’t the most reliable when it comes to injuries.

Earlier in the season, it was revealed that Barcelona wished to sign cover for Samuel Umtiti in January. This is because Umtiti is known for being injured quite a lot and that’s not something Barca wish to approach while unequipped, so their decision is understandable.

A month later on, they appear to have found their man. According to Sport, the Spanish club has launched an offer for Chelsea’s Andreas Christensen. Ageing at 22 years old, the Danish centre-back could be the ideal option for Barcelona heading forward.

A move to Barcelona would suit Andreas Christensen

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Christensen started life under Maurizio Sarri well. He managed to pick up consistent game time while putting in consistent performances. However, the centre-back has fallen down the pecking order due to the good form of Antonio Rudiger and David Luiz. It’s not his fault, of course, it’s more indicative of the fine players around him.

While he won’t be the first choice in Spain, I’m sure any player would rather be a backup option at Barcelona than at Chelsea. Besides, Ernesto Valverde has been known to rotate his squad quite a lot this season, something which Sarri cannot relate to.

At such a young age, minutes on the board is what matters most to Christensen. It remains to be seen whether or not Chelsea are keen to sell him but if the money’s right, then the Chelsea board could easily be swayed.

Learning from Gerard Pique will be crucial

Gerard Pique is one of the best in the business at what he does. There’s a reason why he has made the World XI four times throughout his career and the UEFA Team of the year five times. He’s just that special.

However, he isn’t getting any younger. He ages at 31 now. This is by no means old by a defender’s standards, however, it is good to see Barcelona preparing for life once Pique leaves.

Pique is a fan favourite at the Camp Nou. The fans love him for his defensive resilience and eagerness to win the ball back at all costs. Working with him has definitely benefitted Umtiti, so should Christensen be willing to learn, then he will have a bright future.

Next. Three reasons why Barcelona must keep ahold of Ousmane Dembele. dark

Do you think Barcelona will be able to sign Chelsea’s Andreas Christensen or should they be looking elsewhere?

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