There was a lot of talk and speculation about Arsenal and what Arsene Wenger needs to do in the summer transfer window to give the Gunners the right quality and strength in depth to push on again and claim the Premier League title at the end of next season.
The smart money seemed to be right down the spine of the side, with a keeper, a centre back, a central midfielder and a centre forward our most likely transfer targets. But the boss also suggested that he would only go for a player if they became available at the right price.
So the news reported by The Independent about the availability and cheapness of the young Barcelona and Spain international defender Marc Bartra should have the Frenchman reaching for the phone and his chequebook. Bartra´s agent has revealed that his client has a release clause of just 12 million euros because of his lack of games in the season just gone.
He said, “His release clause has fallen to €12m after failing to make a certain number of appearances, but that’s only until July 1, when it goes back up to €30m.
“Marc is very happy at Barcelona, but if there was real interest from clubs where he could get more space then we’ll listen and make our own decisions.”
The paper also claims that there has already been an enquiry from our north London rivals Tottenham but I am sure that Arsenal would be a bigger draw for the 24-year old. He came through the academy system at Barcelona and although he might not be happy with his recent lack of games, I think that he would only leave the Nou Camp for another club that was guaranteed Champions League football and at least a chance of winning major titles.
Wenger has two weeks to find out if Bartra fancies becoming a Gunner but do you think he will even try?