Barcelona are threatening Real Madrid's plans to sign Fiorentina left-back Juan Manuel Vargas.

The Peru international is well aware of Real's interest in him ahead of the January market and admits he is flattered.

However, La Repubblica says Barcelona are also keen and ready to challenge their Spanish rivals for the left-sided fullback.

Barca coach Pep Guardiola was left short of a left-back at the start of the season after Deportivo La Coruna refused to do business over Luis Filipe.