Arsenal to battle Barcelona for Mertersacker replacement

Arsenal are preparing to enter into a transfer battle with Spanish giants, Barcelona, over a deal for Roma centre-half Kostas Manolos, according to reports from Spanish outlet, Sport.

The Gunners are reportedly considering a move for the Barca target in order to further bolster their defensive ranks, after the addition of Shkodran Mustfai in the summer, by replacing dwindling German, Per Mertersacker.

The World Cup winner is yet to feature for Wenger’s side this season due to injury but considering the form of Laurent Koscielny and his compatriot Mustafi, the 32-year-old will find it hard to break into the side when fit.

Manolos, a Greece international, has racked up just shy of 100 appearances at the heart of the Roma back line since his move from Olympiakos in 2014.

Arsenal reportedly chased the 25-year-old over the summer, however, Roma refused the sale due to a 50% sell on fee owed to his former side.

Despite that, Sport, are reporting that Wenger will go back in for the Greek when Mertersacker’s contract expires next summer.