Arsenal tracking Almeria attacking midfielder

Arsenal scouts are tracking Almeria's versatile midfielder Sergio Arribas with a view to a transfer deal this summer. The Gunners' boss Mikel Arteta has been impressed with the 22-year-old's form in recent months, and sees Arribas as a potential backup option to Bukayo Saka, who has struggled with the sheer number of minutes in recent months.

Reiss Nelson looks likely to depart the Emirates Stadium this summer as he seeks regular first-team football, leaving Arsenal short of a backup wing option for Saka. Arribas appeared 34 times in La Liga last season, scoring an impressive nine goals and also contributing a further four assists. Numerous Spanish teams have been tracking Arribas, but Arsenal are believed to be in pole position to complete a deal.

Arsenal sporting director Edu has been given a healthy budget to spend on new signings, and has been in consultation with Mikel Arteta for several weeks regarding a transfer deal for Arribas. It is understood that Almeria have a minimum fee release clause included in the midfielder's current deal, which could be activated for around £20 million. 

Arribas came through Real Madrid's youth ranks, but last summer opted to leave the for Almeria in a deal worth around 6 million euros.