Struggling Arsenal defender top Barcelona’s defensive target list ahead of January transfer window

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Kickjolly · AI-written · automatically reviewed · Barca Universal ↗

Barcelona is looking to strengthen its defense in the January transfer window, with Piero Hincapie, a struggling Arsenal defender, topping Deco's shopping list, according to Diario SPORT. Hincapie has fallen behind in Arsenal's defensive pecking order, with just over 250 minutes of competitive action this season. He faces competition from players like William Saliba and Gabriel. Barcelona has already made contact with his representatives.

Hincapie's situation at Arsenal is dire due to extreme competition in the defensive unit, with players like Cristhian Mosquera and Riccardo Calafiori also vying for spots. He is a versatile player who can operate as both centre-back and left-back, making him potentially useful for Barcelona. The club is expected to offload Alejandro Balde soon, and Hincapie's left-footedness could be an asset.

While Hincapie could be a handy option for Barcelona, signing him won't be easy, as Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta rates him highly and believes he could be useful in a long season. Hincapie's contract expires in 2031, and he is expected to cost a significant amount. He could be a decent defensive partner for Pau Cubarsi, despite not being as skilled as players like Nico Schlotterbeck.