Barcelona, Altetico Madrid interested in the services of La Liga fullback on loan to Espanyol

Barcelona created quite a stir in Catalonia last summer by bringing in Joan Garcia from Espanyol, a move that will go down as one of the smartest buys in the club’s recent history.

The tension caused by the move was evident during the Catalan derby at the start of the year, with Garcia facing intense boos and jeers from Espanyol supporters.

But that hasn’t deterred Barça from going after yet another Espanyol player, this time in the form of Carlos Romero.

Barcelona eye move for Romero

According to Diario AS, Barcelona are interested in the services of the Villarreal fullback, who is currently playing on loan for Espanyol.

A left-back by trade, Romero has impressed onlookers with his performances this season, racking up four goals and two assists so far in La Liga.

Carlos Romero has emerged as a breakout star at Espanyol this season. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

Barcelona’s interest in Romero comes after Gerard Martin’s conversion to a centre-back, which effectively leaves Hansi Flick without a viable alternative for Alejandro Balde in the left-back position.

Although new signing Joao Cancelo can operate in the left-back position, Barcelona want to a long-term solution and Romero fits the bill perfectly.

Atletico Madrid also interested

However, Barcelona are set to face stiff competition from Atletico Madrid, with newly-appointed sporting director Mateu Alemany keen on bolstering the team’s defence.

While Atleti would have ideally liked to sign Romero in the ongoing January transfer window, a move for him has been postponed until summer due to his loan contract at Espanyol.

Romero will return to Villarreal at the end of the season, after which we could potentially witness a fight between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid in the race to sign the talented Spanish fullback.