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Real Madrid to battle Arsenal for Spanish midfielder

Real Madrid to battle Arsenal for Spanish midfielder


Marc Roca news

Arsenal face Real Madrid competition for Roca

Arsenal could face competition from Real Madrid in the race to sign midfielder Marc Roca from Espanyol at the end of the season.

The Gunners had opened talks with the Spanish club for Roca in February but they could not extend discussions in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

In recent weeks, they have reinitiated contact with Espanyol for the midfielder but it appears that they are not alone in the pursuit of the 23-year-old.

Real Madrid are keen on signing a new defensive midfielder to provide the back-up to Casemiro next season and they have identified Roca as an alternative to Eduardo Camavinga, who appears likely to remain with Rennes next term.

Roca has a release clause worth £35m in his contract but he could be available for around £22m in the next transfer window with Espanyol facing the possibility of relegation.

Los Blancos are obviously a tempting choice for the midfielder, but the Gunners may seek to convince him to join with the assurance of a regular starting role. He has made 28 appearances for Espanyol this term, contributing three goals in the process.