According to a report by Football London on Thursday, November 5, 2026, Barcelona have revived their interest in the Ecuadorian international after keeping track of his situation during the previous summer transfer window. The report, which references information from Spanish newspaper SPORT, claims that discussions have already started between Hincapie and the Catalan club.

Barcelona are understood to be interested in strengthening their central defensive options and view the 24-year-old as a possible addition for the remainder of the campaign. However, Hincapie's situation at Arsenal has reportedly become complicated following a challenging beginning to his time at the Emirates Stadium.

Injuries and increased competition have limited his opportunities under Arteta. The defender is currently competing with Riccardo Calafiori for the left-back position, while the presence of Ezri Konsa and Saliba has created further competition in central defence.

Despite Barcelona's reported interest, it remains uncertain whether Arsenal would consider allowing Hincapie to leave just six months after completing his permanent transfer to the North London side.

Meanwhile, former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand believes Arteta could consider deploying Konsa at right-back to accommodate Saliba in his preferred defensive arrangement.

Konsa has delivered impressive performances since joining Arsenal from Aston Villa, establishing a strong partnership with Gabriel in central defence. However, Saliba's return creates a difficult selection decision because of his importance to the team's defensive stability.

Speaking on his Rio Ferdinand Presents show, the former England international explained why Arsenal must find a place for the French defender, saying: "I think Saliba is one of those guys that you have to find room for in the team. He's that good, he's top."

Ferdinand also highlighted Konsa's consistency and ability to perform his defensive responsibilities effectively. He said: "I said to my son yesterday, 'Watch Ezri Konsa,' because everything he does is efficient. That's a great problem for Arteta to have."

He further suggested that a change of position could provide a solution, adding: "I wouldn't be surprised if Konsa goes back to right-back once Saliba comes back. I wouldn't be surprised because Konsa is top."

Arsenal now face important defensive decisions as January approaches, with Hincapie's reported Barcelona interest and the return of Saliba potentially influencing Arteta's plans for the remainder of the season.