Barcelona Decides Against January Signings

Spanish club Barcelona has decided against making any changes to its squad, including new signings or departures, during the January winter transfer window. This decision stems from Financial Fair Play restrictions and a lack of suitable options in the market, as the sporting management has not found appropriate central defenders in the winter transfer market.

This decision comes despite concerns raised by coach Hansi Flick, who had expressed a desire to discuss reinforcements with sporting director Deco, especially following Andreas Christensen's injury. Christensen suffered a partial tear of his anterior cruciate ligament and is expected to be out for three to four months, which could mean his absence for the remainder of the season.

Although the lengthy injury period might allow Barcelona to utilize the emergency injury rule to register a new player using up to 80% of Christensen's salary cap, Deco remains firm in his stance against adding any player in January unless a player of starting quality becomes available.

In related news, Ronald Araujo is set to return for the derby on the third of this month. Goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen is expected to remain, as will Robert Lewandowski until the end of the season, with the latter aiming to renew his contract. Casadó and Bernal are considered key players given the short squad list and injuries to Christensen and Gavi.