Barcelona turn focus to Arsenal star amid defender search

This comes amid the understanding that Deco and co. are eyeing a mid-season move for Arsenal star Piero Hincapié.

It is common knowledge across Spain at this point that those in a position of power at Barcelona have set their sights on fresh blood at the heart of defence with a view to the 2nd half of the campaign. Amid a personnel crisis in Hansi Flick's backline, the lack of depth at the disposal of the German tactician has been laid bare.

And as alluded to above, this week, a new name has been circled in red in the Camp Nou boardroom. As per a report from Diario Sport: 'Barcelona's sporting management is exploring different alternatives, and one of the names that has appeared on their agenda is that of Piero Hincapié.

His profile fits perfectly into what Barça are looking for. ' The Blaugrana appreciate Hincapié - who has endured a difficult campaign to date in North London - for his technical and tactical excellence alike, as well as the Ecuadorian's ability to fill multiple positions at the back.