Barcelona ruled out of signing former Manchester City star

Barcelona are eager to strengthen their defense line during the winter transfer window and have identified some potential arrivals.

However, latest report from SPORT have claimed the Catalan club has ruled out the possibility of signing Nicolas Otamendi, despite recent speculation linking the Benfica captain with a move to Camp Nou.

Barcelona are currently vulnerable at the back with Andreas Christensen sidelined for at least four months and the continued absence of Ronald Araujo, who has not featured since late November due to mental health reasons.

Hansi Flick in the past few games was forced to make some new changes at the back and would need a new center-back.

Benfica’s Argentine defender #30 Nicolas Otamendi has no plans of joining Barcelona. (Photo by Miguel RIOPA / AFP via Getty Images)

However, report from SPORT claim there has been no contact between Barcelona and Benfica, no offer on the table, and no intention from the Blaugrana to pursue the Argentine defender.

Otamendi, now 37, remains under contract until the end of the season and is considered a key figure both on and off the pitch.

The Portuguese club are not contemplating his departure midway through the campaign.

Even figures close to the club have played down the rumours, insisting that there is no internal concern about the defender’s future and that his leadership remains highly valued.

Despite Barcelona’s eagerness to sort out their defense crisis, the club is determined not to compromise their long-term project with short-term solutions.