Chelsea defender Christensen a step away from Barça signing

Barcelona continue to work on free transfers for the summer and negotiations are at an advanced stage to sign Chelsea and Denmark defender Andres Christensen.

A four-year contract offer is on the table for Christensen and the agreement is almost closed following months of talks with the centre-back's camp. A final meeting between Chelsea and the player could lead to the deal being finalised soon.

Christensen wanted to come to Barça two years ago on loan but Chelsea blocked a move. Now he will join on a free as his deal expires at Stamford Bridge to be part of Xavi's new project.

The operation has been on the table since last summer when Barça made an approach to see if he would be available for free this year. They had remained in contact with his camp since first trying to sign him.

In January, there was a meeting to move things on and Christensen committed to giving an answer as soon as possible. As of day, he has decided to leave, although it's true Chelsea are pressing him to stay,

Roman Abramovich's problems as a result of the Ukraine war could delay Chelsea's movements, though, which is why the Dane has already decided to take the step of signing for Barça.

Bayern Munich have been trying, too, but their salary policy has made a satisfactory deal unfeasible.

Christensen is a centre-back who firs Barça's style. He's quick and good on the ball and can play on the right or the left of the defensive pairing.

Barça need a revamp at the back. The club want to close Ronald Araujo's renewal. Eric Garcia will also remain at the club but beyond those two Gerard Pique, who the club still have faith in, is 35 and Samuel Umtiti, Oscar Mingueza and Clement Lenglet will all be allowed to leave if offers arrive.