Arsenal interested in Manchester United defender

The father of Antonio Valencia has confirmed that Arsenal are among the clubs interested in signing the experienced defender when his contract with Manchester United expires in the summer.

The Ecuador international has been with the Red Devils for nearly a decade but his association is expected to end in the summer with the club not keen on offering him an extension.

Speaking to El Universal, Valencia's father Luis confirmed that United have no intention of extending the right-back's contract which his current deal concludes in June.

He added that the 33-year-old could stay put in the Premier League next term with Arsenal and West Ham United possible contenders to pursue him on a free transfer.

The Gunners are likely to be without Hector Bellerin for the beginning of next season after his serious knee injury and Unai Emery may consider signing Valencia as a back-up option to Ainsley Maitland-Niles.

Stephan Lichtsteiner and Carl Jenkinson are the other options available at the manager's disposal but neither have posed a threat going forward during the ongoing campaign.