On December 4, in the late afternoon in Beijing, Spain's Mundo Deportivo unveiled a list of free agents that FC Barcelona could pursue in the upcoming season, with the names of Ajax's keeper Onana, Chelsea's duo of Azpilicueta and Christensen, and Manchester United's center-forward Cavani on the list.
Onana's trail
Onana, 25, has been honing his skills at the La Masia youth camp since his childhood and is now spreading his wings at Ajax. He is said to be looking forward to his return to Barcelona and is eager to play alongside Ter Stegen for a starting spot. Barcelona are also looking to bring in the German goalkeeper to spark the competitive spirit between the two.
Coveted by Serie A giants
Reports suggest that Onana, whose contract expires next summer, does not intend to renew his contract with Ajax and is eager to take on a new challenge. However, the black goalkeeper is also of interest to Serie A giants Inter Milan, as the Blue and Blacks are looking for a successor to veteran Handanovic, and Onana is their target.
Azpilicueta's Loyalty
Chelsea captain Azpilicueta's contract is set to expire at the end of the season and Barcelona have long had their eye on him. Sources say the 32-year-old Spanish international will return to La Liga next summer at the end of a 10-year Premier League career. He is capable of playing in all positions in the back line, usually as a center back and right back, with occasional cameo appearances at left back.
Stability and Leadership
APZ's biggest strength is that he is a consistent competitor and makes very few mistakes in matches. Azpilicueta played a key role in Enrique's team in the Europa League this summer while helping Chelsea win the Champions League last season. At Chelsea, he is the captain and one of the locker room leaders, which is an important factor in Barcelona's assessment of him.
Christensen's growth
Christensen, 25, has been on Barcelona's radar since as early as when he was on loan from Chelsea to Bundesliga side Borussia Mönchengladbach. The maturing center-back has gradually solidified a starting position under Tuchel's guidance this season. As a result, it will be difficult for Barcelona to sign him next summer. Despite not yet renewing his contract, Tuchel has made it clear that he believes Christensen will continue to play for Chelsea.
The Legend of Cavani
Cavani, who is about to turn 35, is still a sharp goal scorer and can bring a wealth of experience to the team despite his unforgiving age. In order to continue to be the mainstay of the Uruguayan national team at the World Cup in Qatar at the end of next year, Cavani may choose to continue to play for a luxury club in Europe.
The Challenge of Manchester United
Currently, Cavani is struggling to get enough playing time at Manchester United, and this season, he has only appeared in five Premier League matches, making just two starts. However, the signing of Ronico has opened up new opportunities for the Uruguayan. If his situation at United does not improve, Cavani may leave Old Trafford in the upcoming winter transfer window, and Camp Nou may become the new home of the Uruguayan winger.
