Barcelona captain Carles Puyol is a target for Arsenal, according to reports in Spain.

The 31-year-old defender has only ever played for Barca, but with his current contract due to expire at the end of the season, media speculation is rife that he is set to join the Gunners.

Contract negotiations with the talented defender have yet to be concluded, a state of affairs that has, according to certain sections of the Catalan press, led to Arsenal contacting Puyol's agent to see if his client would be agreeable to a move to north London.

Barca coach Pep Guardiola has already urged Puyol to sign a new deal, insisting: "My wish is for him to stay. He has all the virtues and provides solutions and alternatives and is honourable."

Puyol is fast approaching 500 appearances for the Blaugrana since graduating from the B side in 1999.