5 Defenders Barcelona should target instead of de Ligt

#2 Nikola Milenkovic (AC Fiorentina)

The Serbian giant could be a revelation in Barca colours

One of the other young centre-backs whose star has been on the rise, getting him in instead of de Ligt could be a game changer for the Blaugrana.

A giant of a player (he stands at 1.95m), the Serbian international has alongside Inter Milan's Martin Skriniar and Sampdoria's Joachim Andersen been one of the better young centre-backs in Serie A.

Very strong in the air with a good sense of anticipation and tackling, Milenkovic has been likened many times to fellow Serbian, Nemanja Vidic.

Like the former Manchester United captain, he is aggressive and fearless, willing to put himself into positions where he could get injured in order to get the required results.

However, he is also very cultured as he is excellent at passing out of defence and raking long passes to the forward line (being played as a right back by former Fiorentina manager, Stefano Piolo has helped).

He looks perfect for the Barcelona set-up as he is quick over short distances and will be able to provide an effective shield in front of Marc-Andre ter Stegen.

An asking price of £42 million has been mentioned for the player, this would be a very good deal for the Catalans if they can get it done.