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Barcelona keen to offload Ivan Rakitic to make room for defender

By Kian Long

BARCELONA, SPAIN - OCTOBER 24: Milan Skriniar of FC Internazionale greets at the end of the Group B match of the UEFA Champions League between FC Barcelona and FC Internazionale at Camp Nou on October 24, 2018 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Claudio Villa - Inter/Inter via Getty Images)
BARCELONA, SPAIN - OCTOBER 24: Milan Skriniar of FC Internazionale greets at the end of the Group B match of the UEFA Champions League between FC Barcelona and FC Internazionale at Camp Nou on October 24, 2018 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Claudio Villa - Inter/Inter via Getty Images) /
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It would be a win-win situation for Barcelona…

Barcelona are one of the most complete sides in Europe. Homing some of the most talented players in the world, their squad depth and versatility in their play is undeniable.

However, manager Ernesto Valverde has located one key flaw in his squad. It’s thought that in the January transfer window, the manager should look to strengthen his defensive options with a signing or two.

According to reports from Fox Sports, the Catalan side have located Milan Skriniar as their ideal man for the centre-back role. The report suggests they are even willing to include Ivan Rakitic in the deal to persuade Inter Milan further.

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The Slovakian defender is dubbed by many Serie A fans as the next big defender, so that is quite the title to have from a league that prides themselves on defensive class.

Barcelona sit top of La Liga table so it is not the time to be hysterical. However, their defence has been an underlying issue this season. They have conceded 11 goals in 10 La Liga matches, only Granada have conceded more than them in the top four this season (13).

Gerard Pique is the chief at the back and he has been for many seasons now but he is only ageing. Also, Samuel Umtiti is on his last straw at the club after countless injury disappointments. That said, Skriniar could be the perfect replacement for either of those. With Clement Lenglet impressing upon his arrival, Barcelona could have the perfect setup for the future.

Skriniar is a no-nonsense type of defender, however, he is also very adapted to suit the modern game. He is very comfortable in possession so he could easily suit Barcelona’s passing out from the back style. Lionel Messi and company would definitely be in favour of his arrival.

Losing Ivan Rakitic would be a big blow for Barcelona but they are prepared for life without him. The fans have been shouting out his replacements for many months now, with the likes of N’Golo Kante and Paul Pogba making several appearances.

Next. 5 wonderkids who failed to make it at Barcelona. dark

Do you think Barcelona have identified the right man for the future in Milan Skriniar?

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