Barcelona target Piero Hincapie despite Arsenal's £45m purchase option

Barcelona are stepping up their search for defensive reinforcements as manager Hansi Flick looks to reshape the squad for the upcoming season. The club has reportedly identified Piero Hincapie as a primary target to bolster their backline.

After cooling their interest in Inter Milan's Alessandro Bastoni, the Catalans view the 24-year-old Ecuador international as a more attainable profile. His ability to operate as a left-sided centre-back and his composure on the ball align with Flick’s tactical requirements for a modernised defence.

However, Arsenal remain in a commanding position. Hincapie joined the Gunners on a season-long loan from Bayer Leverkusen last summer, a deal that includes a £45 million obligation to buy. Furthermore, the north London club has already agreed on personal terms for a five-year contract.

This contractual advantage leaves Barcelona with a difficult path forward. Should Arsenal trigger the clause, any potential negotiations for the defender would have to be conducted directly with the Gunners rather than Leverkusen. While Barcelona have shown a willingness to spend this window, prising Hincapie away from Arsenal remains a complex challenge.