Arsenal carry on talks with Barcelona over signing defender in summer

Arsenal have added Barcelona full-back Junior Firpo to their summer wish-list and have already tested the waters over a potential deal, reports in Spain claim.

Firpo has been at Barcelona since 2019, when he rejected Premier League interest to join from Real Betis.

However, the full-back has struggled for gametime at Camp Nou. In 18 months, he has managed just 12 starts in La Liga.

Therefore, he could be set for a quick exit from Barca. Once again, Premier League sides could come calling.

According to Todofichajes, Arsenal have made him a top target for the summer. The Gunners are looking for more depth in the full-back areas.

For example, they were linked with Southampton’s Ryan Bertrand and Crystal Palace’s Tyrick Mitchell in the final days of the January transfer window. However, neither ended up joining.

When the transfer window re-opens in the summer, Arsenal could cast their glance further afield.

Todofichajes claim Arsenal held talks with Barcelona about Firpo on deadline day. They were unable to agree a deal to take him on loan, though.

The two clubs, however, have agreed to continue their discussions with a view to the summer.

Firpo wants Premier League move

Firpo reportedly dreams of playing in the Premier League, even though he has offers from three teams in Serie A. Inter, Napoli and Roma have all been linked.

The 24-year-old’s preference would be to play in England, though, and Arsenal is an appealing option.

To accept a transfer, Barcelona want to receive €10m up front. They would also be looking for €5m in add-ons.

However, the idea of Firpo spending the 2021-22 campaign on loan at the Emirates Stadium has not been ruled out either.

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