New contract talks not a deterrent as Barcelona eye Arsenal star

Oli Fisher

Barcelona are reportedly ready to be patient in their pursuit of an Arsenal defender in order to land him on a free.

The Catalan giants are reportedly in the market for a new full-back to provide competition for Jordi Alba, who is currently in a contract stand-off with the club and has been linked with Manchester United.

Full-back Lucas Digne was sold in the summer to Everton in an £18m move from Barca, meaning that a back-up left-back in required.

Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo did claim that Barca have shortlisted Nacho Monreal and Liverpool’s Alberto Moreno as possible solutions.

Now, the same outlet state that the Nou Camp club are willing to wait until next summer to try and snap up the 32-year-old on a free transfer.

However, Monreal recently confirmed that he is in talks with the Gunners over a new deal.

“At the moment we are talking with the club,” the Evening Standard quote him as saying.

“I’ve always said I am really happy, I feel very happy playing for Arsenal. I came six years ago. I have a good relationship with them.

“We are in contact in any moment so don’t worry about that. I am happy here. That is the most important thing.”

 

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