Arsenal planning swoop for Barcelona centre-back?

Arsenal are interested in a surprise move for Barcelona centre-back Eric Garcia following a serious knee injury for Jurrien Timber.

The Dutchman suffered an anterior cruciate knee ligament damage in the first game of the Premier League season against Nottingham Forest.

Timber is now expected to be sidelined for around six months, and the Gunners may want a suitable replacement by the deadline.

Garcia has been linked with the Gunners on many occasions and Mundo Deportivo claim that they could make a late swoop for him.

However, Barcelona boss Xavi is likely to turn down the advances unless there is a significant offer on the table before the deadline.

Garcia has made two appearances off the bench this term and the most recent of those came in the 4-3 win over Villarreal away.

He was brought on at the half-time interval for Andreas Christensen which suggests that he remains part of the manager's plans.

Arsenal will need to make a permanent bid to entice Barcelona to sell him.