Barcelona are reportedly considering a January move for Arsenal defender Piero Hincapie as manager Hansi Flick looks to strengthen his defensive options.
The Catalan club are understood to be seeking a left-footed centre-back after a series of defensive injuries this season. Hincapie has emerged as a potential target because he can operate both centrally and at left-back.
Barcelona interest in Piero Hincapie faces Arsenal obstacle
Barcelona have also considered Alessandro Bastoni of Inter Milan, Manchester City’s Josko Gvardiol and Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez as they assess possible reinforcements.
However, any attempt to sign Hincapie could prove difficult. Transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano has cast doubt on Arsenal agreeing to let the Ecuador international leave during the season.
Discussing speculation over a possible swap deal involving Hincapie and Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde, Romano said: “Arsenal have no intention to sell Hincapie.”
Romano added that Arsenal are highly satisfied with their defensive options and do not intend to alter their backline during the January transfer window.
The defender’s ability to cover several positions is regarded as particularly valuable to Mikel Arteta, further weakening the prospect of a mid-season departure.
Barcelona must therefore decide whether to pursue Hincapie despite Arsenal’s position or turn their attention to one of their other defensive targets as they attempt to address Flick’s concerns.
