Barcelona are considering a shock swoop for Arsenal’s Nacho Monreal, according to reports from Spain.

The La Liga giants want to bring in support for left-back Jordi Alba after having sold Lucas Digne to Everton during the summer.

They however do not want to spend a significant amount after splashing over £200 million on fresh talent since January – including the record £145 million acquisition of midfielder Philippe Coutinho from Liverpool.

They also are keen to bring in an experienced defender who is happy to play deputy to Alba.

Mundo Deportivo report Monreal has been identified as the the man who fits that bill.

The Spaniard, 32, joined Arsenal five seasons ago from Malaga, however is out-of-contract next summer, meaning he could be allowed to leave the club in January.

Monreal has also found his place as the Gunners’ regular left-back come under threat since the arrival of Sead Kolasinac from Schalke last summer.

Kolasinac was injured early this season meaning Monreal has been first-choice for manager Unai Emery for most the campaign so far, however with the Bosnian expected to return next month, he could demote Monreal back to the bench.

Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde is also thought to be eyeing Liverpool’s Alberto Moreno should a move for Monreal prove unsuccessful.