Rumour: Arsenal set to open talks with Fiorentina's Juan Cuadrado

Colombia’s Juan Cuadrado

Arsenal are to open talks with Juan Cuadrado’s representative over a potential transfer for the Colombian wide man.

Cuadrado, 26, is currently with his country for the World Cup and has impressed thoroughly as Colombia opened their World Cup account with two wins out of two.

According to the Express, reports in Spain suggest that Arsenal are to meet Cuadrado’s representative Alessandro Lucci in London over a move.

Lucci has reportedly already spoken to German champions Bayern Munich and he is set to talk with Spanish giants Barcelona as well. Meanwhile, earlier reports claimed a £20m transfer tussle was set to erupt for Cuadrado between Manchester United, Liverpool and Barcelona.

Cuadrado enjoyed a fantastic season with Fiorentina in Serie A, creating 60 chances for his team-mates, as well as scoring 11 goals and assisting a further five. However, the Italian side have only acquired all of Cuadrado’s rights, having recently purchased the remaining 50% from Udinese.

Fiorentina finished fourth in Serie A last season, narrowly missing out on a Champions League place but the clubs chasing Cuadrado can all offer Champions League football. Arsenal will play in the tournament after finishing fourth in the Premier League but they will need to come through a play-off first.

Colombia are top of Group C heading into the last round of matches and they have definitely qualified, they need only a point against Greece to secure top spot.