Barcelona face competition from Real Madrid and Atletico in pursuit of Spanish defender

With the FIFA World Cup just around the corner, the Barcelona cell has started preparation for the upcoming January transfer window, in an attempt to strengthen the squad.

One of their main targets is to find a new right-back, amid the struggles of new signing Hector Bellerin. The former Arsenal star has suffered from injuries and has not been able to make the desired impact, thus accentuating Xavi’s need for a new option in the position.

Barcelona have been already linked with moves for several talented right-backs across Europe including Diogo Dalot and former La Masia talent Arnau Martinez.

According to a recent report from Record, Barcelona are also keeping tabs on Pedro Porro. The former Manchester City starlet currently plies his trade for Sporting CP and is regarded as one of the top full-backs playing in Portugal.

With almost 100 competitive appearances for Sporting, Porro has impressed onlookers with his consistent performances in both the domestic and the European circle. He also won his maiden cap for Spain last year.

Although the Spaniard has not been able to crack the Spain team since, he is seen as a cost-effective option for Barcelona, in their bid to add more depth to the right-back department. In 16 matches this season, Porro has registered five assists for Sporting.

However, Barça are not the only club on the hunt for Porro. The former Man City starlet is also on the books of arch-rivals Real Madrid, while clubs such as Atletico Madrid and Juventus are monitoring his progress as well.

They could all make a move for the 23-year-old in the upcoming January transfer window or in the summer. So, it will be interesting to see what the future holds for the player, as he looks to take the next step in his career.