Arsenal are interested in signing Barcelona centre-back Eric Garcia, according to the Daily Star.

The English tabloid claims that the Gunners are considering a “surprise loan move” for the Spanish international ahead of tonight’s transfer deadline.

After losing Jurrien Timber to an ACL injury, the London club have been looking at potential replacements and Garcia is seen as the best solution currently on the market.

Barca are said to be willing to let the 22-year-old leave the Camp Nou,  after he failed to establish himself as a first team regular under manager Xavi.

Garcia has started only 15 league games since the beginning of last season, and he has actually been deployed out of position as a holding midfielder on a number of occasions.

Arsenal have tried to sign the player before

The Daily Star claim that the Gunners were interested in bringing in Garcia when he left Manchester City for Barcelona on a free transfer two years ago.

They lost out on the defender then but it appears they are now willing to make a second attempt to secure his signature. Manager Mikel Arteta knows the player well from his time as assistant manager of the Citizens and he is clearly keen to work with him again.

Another centre-back could leave the Emirates on Deadline Day

The arrival of Garcia could take on greater urgency if Arsenal also decide to offload Rob Holding. Crystal Palace are believed to be keen on snapping up the 27-year-old and, if he leaves, there would definitely be space for another centre-half to be brought in.

William Saliba, Gabriel, Jakub Kiwior and Ben White would be the remaining options, although White will also be used at fullback. Securing Garcia on loan would certainly give Arteta greater flexibility in terms of selection choices and tactical setup.