According to a report by Metro on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, Barcelona have opened discussions with Arsenal defender Piero Hincapie over a possible January transfer as the Spanish giants look to strengthen their defensive options.

The Ecuadorian international has emerged as one of Barcelona's preferred targets ahead of the winter transfer window, with sporting director Deco reportedly making contact with the player's representatives to establish whether a move to the Nou Camp would be possible.

Hincapie joined Arsenal permanently from Bayer Leverkusen after impressing during his loan spell at the Emirates Stadium last season.

The 24-year-old made 39 appearances across all competitions, helping Mikel Arteta's team win the Premier League title and reach the Champions League final.

His performances convinced Arsenal to activate their purchase option, completing a permanent transfer worth more than £35 million. The defender subsequently signed a five-year contract with the north London club.

However, his situation has become less straightforward during the 2026/27 campaign, with competition for places and injury problems limiting his opportunities.

Hincapie is yet to make his first Premier League start this season and has managed only 46 minutes of action in the competition.

Riccardo Calafiori currently occupies the preferred left-back position in Arteta's selection, while the arrival of England international Ezri Konsa during the summer has increased competition for places in central defence.

Barcelona are reportedly looking to take advantage of the defender's limited playing time as they prepare to strengthen their backline in January.

The Catalan club previously showed interest in Hincapie during last summer's transfer window but have now revived their pursuit as they assess possible defensive additions.

Deco is understood to have placed the Arsenal defender high on his recruitment list, although Barcelona are also considering Inter Milan centre-back Alessandro Bastoni.

The 27-year-old Italy international has attracted attention following his performances for the Serie A champions.

Meanwhile, Hincapie was also linked with Real Madrid last summer, with reports suggesting that Jose Mourinho was among his admirers.

Despite Barcelona's interest, Arsenal are reportedly reluctant to allow any important first-team players to leave during the January transfer window.

Arteta's team are expected to remain involved in the fight for major honours during the second half of the season, making the possible departure of Hincapie a difficult decision for the club.

The defender recently made a late substitute appearance in Arsenal's 1-0 victory over Liverpool at Anfield, a result that sent the Gunners three points clear at the top of the Premier League.