Both Manchester United and Newcastle have demonstrated significant interest in Andreas Christensen, the former Chelsea defender.

Andreas Christensen, the former Chelsea defender, is attracting interest from Manchester United and Newcastle, according to reports. The 27-year-old has struggled for game time at Barcelona this season, leading to speculation about a potential move in the January transfer window. Both United and Newcastle are said to be “very interested” in securing his services.

Barcelona are reportedly in the market for a new defender due to injuries in their backline, while Newcastle manager Eddie Howe is also looking to strengthen his defensive options. Christensen, however, has expressed his desire to stay at Barcelona, despite manager Xavi favoring other centre-backs. The Danish international has only managed to string together four consecutive appearances this season, with Xavi preferring Ronald Araujo, Jules Kounde, and summer signing Inigo Martinez.

Barcelona’s financial situation suggests that they may be willing to sell Christensen at a relatively low price. The exact fee has not been disclosed, but with the club’s precarious financial predicament, a sale could come “fairly cheap.” Christensen is contracted to Barcelona for another two-and-a-half years.

In other transfer news, Chelsea have set their sights on Athletic Bilbao defender Aitor Paredes. The Blues have reportedly scouted the 23-year-old seven times this season as they look to bolster their squad in January. Paredes’ impressive performances have been crucial to Athletic’s strong form in La Liga, where they currently sit in fourth place.

Chelsea have requested a price from Athletic Bilbao for Paredes, but the club has been reluctant to set one. The defender is under contract until 2025 and could be available for around £20 million. Real Madrid and Inter Milan have also shown interest in Paredes.

Meanwhile, Arsenal are willing to wait until the summer to sign a new full-back and have their sights set on Jeremie Frimpong. The Gunners are in need of defensive reinforcements, with several players unavailable due to injury or loan spells. Frimpong, who has been impressive for Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga, is a target for Arsenal.

The Gunners have identified a new striker, central midfielder, and two full-backs as their top priorities in the January transfer window. Ivan Toney is their primary target for the forward position, while Martin Zubimendi is a potential midfield option. Frimpong has been heavily linked with a move to Arsenal, but the club is prepared to delay their pursuit until the summer when his £34 million release clause becomes active. Frimpong is under contract at Bayer Leverkusen for another four-and-a-half years and has been a key player for them this season, contributing five goals and seven assists in 16 Bundesliga matches.