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Barcelona vs. Arsenal: European giants 'set to battle' for highly-rated Frenchman

Barcelona and Arsenal are reportedly both interested in signing Sevilla midfielder Lucien Agoume, with the France Under-21s international potentially leaving Estadio Ramon next summer.

Agoume made four first-team appearances for Inter Milan before making the switch to Sevilla, initially on loan, and he has represented his current side on 30 occasions in all competitions, with 27 of those coming in La Liga.

This term, the 22-year-old has made 17 appearances for Sevilla, and it is understood that his performances have put him on the radar of a number of major clubs, with Garcia Pimienta's side seemingly facing a difficult task when it comes to keeping him.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Arsenal have made Agoume a leading transfer target, but Barcelona are also said to be showing an interest ahead of next summer's transfer window.

Sevilla are in a strong position when it comes to the midfielder's future, with his contract at Estadio Ramon due to run until June 2028, but they will find it difficult to keep hold of him on a long-term basis.

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick on November 10, 2024© Imago

Barcelona, Arsenal 'keen on Sevilla midfielder Agoume'

Barcelona are currently well-stocked in the middle of midfield, with Marc Casado having an outstanding breakthrough season, while Pedri, Gavi, Frenkie de Jong and Fermin Lopez are options in that area.

Pablo Torre has scored three times in seven league appearances from midfield this term, and the highly-rated 17-year-old Marc Bernal should recover from a serious knee injury before the start of the 2025-26 campaign.

There is uncertainty when it comes to De Jong's future, though, with the Netherlands international not currently a part of Hansi Flick's strongest XI, and it is believed that he would be allowed to leave for the right price.

Arsenal's Thomas Partey pictured on September 22, 2024© Imago

What is Arsenal's midfield situation?

Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard are absolute certainties in the Arsenal XI, while Mikel Merino arrived from Real Sociedad over the summer, with the Spaniard having a steady first few months at the club.

Thomas Partey and Jorginho are both out of contract next summer, though, and there is uncertainty when it comes to the duo.

As a result, at least one new midfielder is set to arrive at the Emirates Stadium next summer, and Agoume has emerged as an interesting option for both the Gunners and Barcelona, with more strong performances for Sevilla in the coming months likely to lead to his exit.

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