Arsenal are hoping to sign Barcelona B midfielder Sergi Samper for £9.5million in January, according to The Mirror.
The Barcelona youngster had been heavily linked with the Gunners three years ago when he was 16. Now 19, the midfielder has established himself in the Barcelona B side, but is looking to be rewarded with first team appearances.
His current contract expires in 2017 and it includes a £9.5million release clause. Whilst this might seem steep, his potential makes him an attractive purchase for Wenger. Samper plays in a holding midfield role and could be viewed as the long term replacement for Mikel Arteta whose contract expires at the end of this season.
He is dubbed the new Busquets in Spain, here’s a video of him in action:
It is reported that new Barcelona manager Luis Enrique has promised him game time, but if that promise does not happen, Samper may be intrigued by Premier League games with Arsenal. It is however, believed Samper’s priority is to stay with Barcelona and play his way into the first team.
Should Arsenal sign a ready made replacement for Arteta? Or someone like Samper or Rabiot?