Milito Likely to Join Barca Defense

With FC Barcelona looking to solidify the center of the defense, it has been heavily speculated that the club will look to add AS Roma star and captain of the Romanian national team, Christian Chivu- but he may not be the leading candidate to line up next to Carlos Puyol, with Real Zaragoza center back and Argentina international Gabriel Milito emerging as the likeliest addition.

When asked about Barcelona’s reported interest in Gabriel Milito, Begiristain confessed that a deal with Milito is "the closest and we are working on that", but added that "there are alternatives", presumably referring to Chivu. Begiristain also said that Milito himself "had the desire" to join FC Barcelona, though he also added that "We are continuing to try and close a deal and, from there, we hope that everything goes well."

Milito, a strong, disciplined center back, looks to be fantastic fit for FC Barcelona. In addition to being a force in front of his keeper, in classic Barça style, Milito possesses strong technical skill and, though not an accomplished goal scorer, is capable of moving forward and supporting the attack. By adding Milito, Barcelona will certainly be adding an anchor on the pitch, but Milito’s attitude and leadership could prove to be as valuable to the team.