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Barcelona return to action in the Copa del Rey on Saturday, January 4, when they face Barbastro at the Estadio Municipal. Hansi Flick will be desperate to start the new season with a win following a troubled last few weeks.
Meanwhile, the Catalans have set their sights on an Arsenal midfielder. Elsewhere, Manchester United are planning a move for Andreas Christensen.
On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from December 31, 2024.
Barcelona eyeing Thomas Partey
Barcelona are planning to sign Thomas Partey once his contract with Arsenal expires at the end of this season, according to Mundo Deportivo. The Ghanaian midfielder has been in and out of Mikel Arteta's starting XI in recent seasons and his future remains uncertain.
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Partey has registered 25 appearances across competitions, 21 of which have been starts. However, his efforts haven't been enough to earn him a new deal so far.
The Catalans are keeping a close eye on his situation as they plan for midfield reinforcements in 2025. The LaLiga giants would like to sign a backup for youngster Marc Casado next year.
However, Barcelona's poor financial situation continues to cripple them in the transfer market. The club are looking at cost-effective options once again and are enticed by the prospect of signing Partey for free.
The Catalans are sweating on the future of Frenkie de Jong, whose contract expires in 2026. The Dutchman hasn't signed a new deal yet and the club could be forced to offload him next summer if he continues to stall a renewal.
Partey has been identified as the ideal replacement for De Jong at Camp Nou. The 31-year-old's ability to fill in at right-back also makes him an attractive option for the LaLiga giants.
Manchester United want Andreas Christensen
Manchester United are planning a move for Andreas Christensen, according to Todo Fichajes. The Danish defender has struggled with injuries this season and has registered just one appearance so far.
Recent reports have suggested that Barcelona are planning to cash in on him in 2025. They are ready to let him go on loan in January with an option for an €18 million permanent transfer next summer.
Manchester United are open to such an arrangement and have taken the lead in the race for the 28-year-old's signature. They have already held talks regarding a move. Christensen has the experience of playing in the Premier League with Chelsea and could hit the ground running with a move.
Catalans end Alexander Isak pursuit
Barcelona have ended their pursuit of Alexander Isak due to his steep price tag, according to SPORT. The Catalans are looking for Robert Lewandowski's long-term replacement, with the Polish ace set to turn 37 in August.
Lewandowski has been in impressive form this season, although he has shown signs of regression. The LaLiga giants previously had their eyes on Isak to eventually fill the veteran striker's shoes.
The Swedish has gone from strength to strength since joining Newcastle United and has been in fine form this season as well. Isak has registered 13 goals and four assists from 20 games across competitions. However, the Magpies want €180 million to let him go, which makes him out of bounds for Barcelona.
