With all of Europe knowing that Arsenal, already linked with players such as Kostas Manolas and Getafe’s Djené, are after a centre-back this summer, the stories are writing themselves in the gossip columns.
The latest to be added to a long list of reported targets for Unai Emery this summer is Espanyol’s Mario Hermoso.
The 23-year-old has played a key role in helping his side battle for a European spot this season, as Espanyol ended their campaign on a nine game unbeaten run, and his performances caught the eye of a number of big clubs around the continent.
Sport in Spain explain that, as well as the Gunners, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich have taken an interest in Hermoso. All three ‘have shown their interest’ in signing the player, who has a release clause of €40m.
However, the outlet believe the player is valued at around €20m, suggesting he could leave for that amount should such an offer arrive.
Another important piece of information is that Real Madrid have the option to buy him back from Espanyol for €7m if they so wish, following his free transfer from Castilla back in 2017.
It could end up being a case of the La Liga giants triggering the clause and taking the profits for themselves if they then sell him onto another club, such as Arsenal.
Certainly one to keep an eye on.
