Barca step up back-up left-back search

The sale of Lucas Digne to Everton has left the Spanish champions bereft of back-up to Jordi Alba, with a couple of Premier League stars under consideration for the role, according to Spanish publication 'Mundo Deportivo'.

Liverpool's Alberto Moreno and Arsenal's Nacho Monreal are the men in question, with both due to become free agents next summer.

Now 32, Monreal remains an important part of the Arsenal side, particularly with fellow full-back Sead Kolasinac currently sidelined through injury.

The former Málaga man would also provide a degree of versatility, having tucked in at centre-back on occasion since joining the club from Málaga five years ago.

Moreno's position at Liverpool is less secure, with Andy Robertson having established himself as the club's undisputed number one left-back.

The Spaniard has never truly convinced at Anfield since joining from Sevilla in 214, with his undoubted attacking talented balanced out by some shoddy defensive displays.

A move back to his homeland would likely appeal to Moreno, who has four caps for his country.

Finally, Barca's third target is thought to be Atletico Madrid veteran Filipe Luis.

The former Chelsea man is also coming towards the end of his contract and is understood to be open to a new challenge having come close to joining PSG in the summer.

However, there is doubt as to whether the Brazilian would be open to the idea of playing second fiddle to Alba at the Camp Nou.