FC Barcelona rule out Marc Bernal loan move in January

FC Barcelona have no plans to let Marc Bernal leave. Despite limited minutes so far (119 between La Liga and the Champions League), Hansi Flick wants to keep him in the squad.

'Mundo Deportivo' reports that Girona had intended to reinforce their squad with him in the winter transfer window. However, they were met with the 'Blaugrana' club's refusal to let him go.

Injuries to key players in the centre of midfield - Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, Fermin, Olmo and Gavi - and Marc Casado's dip in form compared to last year mean that the 'Azulgrana' must keep hold of a player who needs to regain rhythm after a serious injury last season.

Flick's staff rate the 18-year-old highly, viewing him as an important player for the future. For now, the priority is for him to remain in the squad rather than be allowed to leave on loan.