Gunners eyeing La Liga stars
The Gunners have set their sights on a number of La Liga stars ahead of the summer transfer window, given new Sporting Director Andrea Berta's extensive links to the Spanish league.
andrea-berta-arsenal-premier-league
Omar El Hilali is the latest player to emerge as a potential target, given that the Espanyol defender has an attractive release clause of just £12.5m, while new options are also being considered in more attacking areas of the pitch.
Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi has been heavily linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium, alongside Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams, and the north Londoners have recently made contact to discuss a deal for the Spaniard.
£42m star now expected to join new club as Arsenal scouts really impressed
Amid the Spanish club's financial struggles, Arsenal have also expressed interest in Barcelona players in recent months, with Raphinha being identified as a target back in December, and they are now very keen on a move for a midfielder.
That is according to a report from Spain, which states the Gunners have shown the most interest in signing Barca's Marc Casado, who has emerged as a key player for the La Liga title contenders this season.
FC Barcelona's Marc Casado celebrates scoring their second goal with teammates
Arteta views Casado as the ideal addition to his midfield, given his tackling ability, and there is a belief he would be a good fit for the Spaniard's style of play.
That said, it could be very difficult to get a deal done this summer, considering Barcelona are currently unwilling to sanction a departure, given the midfielder's importance to the team.
There is also a huge £83m release clause included in the 21-year-old's contract, which could be another potential stumbling block for Arteta.
"Amazing" Casado emerging as key player for Barca
It has been a real breakthrough season for the youngster at Camp Nou, making 35 appearances in all competitions, having solidified his place as a regular starter for the La Liga giants.
As noted in the report, the Spaniard's tackling ability is particularly impressive, but he is also capable of making attacking contributions, ranking very highly for assists per 90 over the past year, when compared to his positional peers.
Statistic
Average per 90
Pass completion %
89.9% (92nd percentile)
Assists
0.21 (93rd percentile)
Tackles
3.12 (90th percentile)
There are now doubts over Thomas Partey's long-term future at the Emirates Stadium, with the Ghanaian holding talks with Atletico Madrid and Barcelona ahead of a potential free transfer in the summer.
Casado, who has been lauded as "amazing" by Hansi Flick, has proven he could be an excellent replacement for the midfielder, but it does not seem like a deal is particularly likely this summer, given Barcelona's reluctance to sell the La Masia graduate.
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