Andreas Christensen one step away from signing for Barcelona

Chelsea defender Andreas Christensen is one step away from signing a pre-contract deal with Barcelona, Sport claims.

The Denmark international’s future has been a constant topic of speculation in recent months. It appears the Blaugrana have eventually won the race to land his signature.

Christensen was initially fancied to sign a new long-term contract with the Blues last summer, but he made a surprise U-turn after learning of the Blaugrana’s interest.

The centre-back was previously keen on joining the Catalan giants on loan three years ago. He could now join them permanently when his Blues deal expires in June.

There were advanced contract talks between the player and the club in January. It is now reported that a deal for four seasons has been ‘practically agreed’.

The 25-year-old has given his ‘verbal OK’ to the free transfer. It appears only a matter of time before a formal announcement is made regarding the Bosman move.

Bayern had also entered negotiations, but a deal does not seem to have materialised due to their ‘salary policy’, which made a satisfactory agreement ‘unworkable’.

Barcelona are placing their emphasis on free transfer signings amid the La Liga imposed salary cap. They can only spend 25 per cent of their profits until the wage bill is significantly lowered.

Christensen could be the first of many signings through that route. AC Milan midfielder Franck Kessie has also given the green light to join them when his contract expires this summer.

The Blaugrana are also looking to land Christensen’s teammate and Blues captain Cesar Azpilicueta, who could leave the club due to his preference for a multi-year deal.

Chelsea centre-back Antonio Rudiger has also been linked, but it seems unlikely that the Blaugrana will pursue another player for the heart of the defence after Christensen’s arrival.

The club are already loaded with options in Gerard Pique, Eric Garcia, Ronald Araujo, Samuel Umtiti, Clement Lenglet and Oscar Mingueza. There could be one or two exits instead.