Arsenal have reportedly identified Atletico Madrid midfielder Pablo Barrios as a potential summer transfer target.
The Gunners are currently focused on trying to chase down Liverpool in the Premier League title race and preparing for their Champions League quarter-final with Real Madrid.
However, off the pitch, it has been widely reported that Andrea Berta is due to become the club's new sporting director after the departure of Edu.
Such a change will represent a new era behind the scenes at the Emirates Stadium as Arsenal bid to make strides on the pitch in their search for silverware under Mikel Arteta.
According to Fichajes, it appears that Berta is prepared to return to his former club to add to the midfield ranks at the North Londoners.
© Imago
Barrios attracting more Premier League interest?
The report alleges that Barrios has emerged as another midfield name on Arsenal's radar courtesy of his performances for Atletico this campaign.
A total of 26 starts and two substitute outings have been made in all competitions, with Barrios completing the 90 minutes against Real Madrid and Barcelona in games played over the past week.
Nevertheless, it has been suggested that Barrios could be the subject of interest this summer with Chelsea having previously been linked with a move for the pain international.
With a contract in place until 2028, Atletico will not feel in any rush to part ways with the 21-year-old, but that may be dependent on the size of any offer.
Barrios is said to have a €100m (£84.1m) release clause in his contract, albeit that figure would prove to be unrealistic if Atletico decided that they were open to a sale.
As it stands, Barrios has made a total of 92 appearances for Atletico, contributing three goals and five assists during that time.
© Imago
Zubimendi alternative?
Despite Arsenal's alleged interest in Barrios, it has already been claimed that they have a deal lined up for Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi.
He would appear to be Arteta's first choice for engine room reinforcements at a time when Thomas Partey and Jorginho are expected to move elsewhere.
Arsenal are not in a position where they could sign both players, nor do they need to when Declan Rice, Mikel Merino and Martin Odegaard are already regular starters.
Darren Plant
