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What's the story?
According to the reputed Spanish media outlet, Sport, FC Barcelona are eyeing a summer move for Arsenal's left-back Nacho Monreal. The La Liga giants are willing to offer a two-year deal to the Spaniard.
In case you didn't know..
Having renewed Jordi Alba's contract till 2024 recently, the Catalans are now in pursuit of a player who can cover for the 29-year-old when injured or rested. His new contract with the La Liga champions includes a €500m release clause.
Alba joined FC Barcelona in 2012 and has made 282 appearances, winning 14 trophies, including four La Liga and one Champions League title.
The Spanish left-back has missed just five games this season, three out of which came in the early stages of the Copa del Rey. On those occasions, Ernesto Valverde had to use youngsters like Juan Miranda or even right-back Nelson Semedo to replace the former Valencia man.
The heart of the matter
The squad depth of any European club determines their survival in a long, hectic schedule during the season. Hence, the Catalans are eyeing a move for Arsenal defender, Nacho Monreal to cover for Jordi Alba before they actually find a long-term replacement for the Spaniard.
Nacho Monreal, having played in La Liga before his switch to Arsenal in 2013, is an experienced fullback. The 33-year-old is into the last six months of his contract with the Gunners.
The La Liga champions are willing to offer a two-year deal to the Arsenal man as they expect him to cover for Jordi Alba until the four-time La Liga winner's legs start to give away. The likes of Miranda and Marc Cucurella are expected to be sold in the future. Hence, signing a figure like Monreal on a two-year-long deal would be an ideal move by the five-time Champions League winners.
What's next?
It remains to be seen whether the Gunners will offer Monreal a new deal or they'll let him leave for free at the end of the season. On the other hand, Barcelona might be looking to hold personal talks with the defender already.
Also see : Fantasy Premier League , Fantasy Premier League Tips, EPL Transfer News
