CD Leganes defender Diego Rico has been attracting interest from Spain and England in the summer transfer window. The 25-year-old has been on the radar of Real Sociedad and AFC Bournemouth.
The San Sebatsian based outfit announced Asier Garitano as their new manager earlier in May. Prior to his move to Anoeta, he spent five seasons with Leganes. The new Sociedad boss is aware of Rico’s abilities, having coached him for two seasons with the Los Pepineros.
Accoridng to Catalan newspaper Sport, Garitano is an admirer of Rico. He wanted to sign the full-back for his new club. However, the La Liga outfit are facing competition from Eddie Howe’s side.
The report claims Rico has received a ‘better offer from Bournemouth’, which has forced Real Sociedad look elsewhere in the transfer market. Garitano’s side have now set their sights on Arsenal’s Nacho Monreal.
Monreal’s contract with the north London club runs down in 2019. Bournemouth’s offer for Rico has forced Sociedad to make the 32-year-old Spain international their Plan B target for the left-back position.
The Basque born player has been repeatedly linked with both Real Sociedad and Athletic Club Bilbao, and it’s almost certain the Bilbao club would provide competition if there’s any prospect of Monreal leaving.
