Arsenal and Liverpool defenders shock targets for Barcelona

Arsenal veteran Nacho Monreal and Liverpool outcast Alberto Moreno have emerged as shock transfer targets for Barcelona, claims Mundo Deportivo.

Barcelona sold Lucas Digne to Everton in the summer and failed to replace the left-back during the transfer window.

Jordi Alba is the only recognised left-back at Barcelona and manager Ernesto Valverde would like to strengthen in January.

Thomas Vermaelen is capable of filling out there when required but the Belgium international has a poor record with injuries.

Dipping into the January transfer window does not particularly appeal to Barcelona’s board but may be necessary.

Valverde would like someone capable of replacing Alba when required but some of the names on their shortlist comes as a huge shock.

Moreno is deemed surplus to requirements at Liverpool and is being considered by Valverde.

Liverpool spent £12m to sign Moreno from Sevilla in 2014 but the pacey left-back has been a huge disappointment.

The 26-year-old is firmly below Andrew Robertson in the pecking order for places at Liverpool and has no real future under Jurgen Klopp.

Barcelona are also considering a shock move for Monreal, who was heavily linked with a move to Athletic Club this summer.

Since the start of last season, the 32-year-old has scored six league goals in 31 appearances for Arsenal, having failed to score in each of his first four league campaigns at the club (124 appearances).