Barcelona Eyes Arsenal Defender Piero Hincapie
Barcelona is reportedly considering a move for Arsenal defender Piero Hincapie, but the club acknowledges that securing his signature would be a challenging task. The Spanish giants have already made a significant start to their transfer strategy by finalizing a £70 million deal to bring in Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United, with the player set to undergo his medical today.
In addition to Gordon, Barcelona is also preparing an offer for striker Julian Alvarez, who plays for Atletico Madrid. However, the club is aware that this potential move will not be straightforward, given the rivalry between the clubs and the high price tag involved.
Hincapie joined Arsenal last summer on a loan deal from Bayer Leverkusen, with an option to buy for £45 million and a 10 percent sell-on clause. If Arsenal decide to trigger the option, a five-year contract is already in place. The 24-year-old has settled well at Arsenal, becoming a reliable member of the squad who has played as both a centre-back and left-back.
Mikel Arteta, the Arsenal manager, has frequently turned to Hincapie in crucial matches. He even sought advice from Xabi Alonso, the new Chelsea boss, who described Hincapie as “a warrior who would run through walls for you.”
When asked if he intended to take up the option to sign Hincapie permanently, Arteta said: “I would say so. Let’s go through the season. We have already discussed the possible outcomes that we have after that period. But so far, we are very, very happy with him.”
Hincapie has made 38 appearances this season as Arsenal approaches a Premier League and Champions League double. Given his performance, Barcelona’s sporting director Deco recognizes that prising him away would be no easy transaction. Nevertheless, the club is willing to test the waters as they search for a left-sided centre-back.
It is understood that Hincapie is content at The Emirates Stadium, but should Barcelona express interest, Arsenal’s response would provide a clearer indication of how the defender is viewed moving forward.
Arsenal is looking to strengthen their squad in full-back and attack positions, with Atletico’s Julian Alvarez also being considered as a target. Paris St Germain is also interested in Alvarez. Additionally, the club aims to increase competition in midfield, which may require some financial sacrifices.
Gabriel Jesus and Leandro Trossard are both players who could potentially leave the club. However, Jesus has expressed a desire to see out his contract, while interested parties have been quoted £18 million or more for the 29-year-old Brazilian.
