Arsenal plotting bid for Real Betis left back Junior Firpo - but there could be ONE obstacle
The Gunners made a number of defensive-minded signings during the summer, but it appears that manager Unai Emery is looking to further strengthen his backline.
Arsenal though could face a major obstacle to land the left-back as his agent is Pep Guardiola’s brother.
Spanish newspaper AS claims there are a number of clubs interested in Firpo, 22, following his impressive performances for Betis this season.
The defender starred again as his side beat Barcelona 4-3 at the Nou Camp at the weekend, scoring once.
He has now bagged two goals and an assist in 11 starts this season for Betis.
Torino are also said to be monitoring the situation, although Firpo allegedly possesses a £43.5m release clause in his contract.
But Arsenal and City are set to become frontrunners after throwing their hats in the ring.
Emery would love to sign Firpo for the Gunners, with veteran Nacho Monreal nearing the end of his Emirates adventure and Sead Kolasinac massively out of favour.
However, City hold the advantage as Firpo’s agent is Guardiola’s brother Pere, who owns 55 per cent of Media Base Sports and represents the likes of Luis Suarez and Andres Iniesta.
City are also in the market for a left-back to compete with Benjamin Mendy, and Firpo’s potential makes him an ideal candidate for the Premier League champions.
DS