Barcelona aim to break up Arsenal's ironclad defence with move for star worth upwards of £45m

Barcelona are weighing up an approach for Arsenal defender Piero Hincapie but recognise it will be a difficult deal to pull off.

The Spanish champions have kickstarted their recruitment drive by agreeing a £70million plus deal to sign Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United, who is arriving for his medical today.

They are also preparing an offer for striker Julian Alvarez at Atletico Madrid but know, with their rivalry plus a huge price tag, that is not straightforward either.

Arsenal signed Hincapie last summer from Bayer Leverkusen on loan with an option to buy for £45million and a 10 percent sell-on clause. Should they trigger the option, a five year contract is pre-agreed.

The 24-year-old has bedded in well at Arsenal proving a reliable member of the squad filling in at centre-back and left-back.

Mikel Arteta has turned to him in important games, revealing that when he asked his friend, new Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso, about him, he described Hincapie as 'a warrior who would run through walls for you'.

Asked whether 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.'

The Ecuador international has gone on to make 38 appearances as the Gunners stand on the brink of a Premier League and Champions League double.

As such, Barca sporting director Deco recognises prising away Hincapie is no easy transaction but they are willing to test the water as they search for a left-sided centre-back.

It is understood the defender is happy at The Emirates but similarly, should Barca pursue their interest, Arsenal's reply will give a clearer indication of how he is viewed going forward.

Arsenal want to upgrade their squad at full-back and in attack, indeed Atletico's Alvarez is also on their wish list - and that of Paris St Germain. They also want increased competition in midfield but a couple of financial sacrifices may be required along the way.

Gabriel Jesus and Leandro Trossard are both considered players who could depart.

However, Jesus has indicated he would like to see out his contract while interested parties have been quoted £18m and above should they wish to bid for the 29-year-old Brazilian.