Arsenal are stepping up their pursuit of Como star Jacobo Ramon, with Mikel Arteta keen to strengthen his defence this summer.
Gunners eyeing new additions in defence
Arteta's side made hard work of it, but they are now in a strong position to qualify for the semi-finals of the Champions League, with Kai Havertz netting a stoppage-time winner to gift them a 1-0 victory at Sporting CP on Tuesday night.
The Gunners brought a two-game losing streak to an end with a slender win in Portugal, taking control of the tie, ahead of the second-leg at the Emirates Stadium on April 15th.
There were a few nervy moments, however, with Havertz insisting the team owes the victory to David Raya, who pulled off some top-quality saves, saying: "Unbelievable. I think still underestimated in the world of football but for me, the last two seasons, the best keeper in the world," Havertz said. "He's outstanding, he's saved us so many times and we're very glad to have him."
William Saliba and Gabriel were given the nod at the heart of defence, but according to a report from Caught Offside, Arteta wants to bring in a new centre-back this summer, as the Brazilian has suffered his fair share of injury setbacks over the past two seasons.
Kepa-Arrizabalaga-Arsenal-Gabriel
The report also states Arsenal are now advancing to sign Como defender Ramon, who is regarded as a long-term successor to Gabriel, with Real Madrid centre-back Victor Valdepenas also under consideration.
That is despite the fact manager Cesc Fabregas has previously made it clear he is convinced the 21-year-old will remain a Como player beyond the end of the season.
A Caught Offside source also added: "Arsenal are looking very closely at Valdepenas and Ramon this summer. Their scouts have watched them several times and the feedback has been really positive. Arteta wants a young centre-back that can eventually become Gabriel’s replacement to partner Saliba."
Jacobo Ramon's key attributes
Scout Jacek Kulig has lauded the youngster for his ability in the air, which has regularly been on display in the Serie A this season.
However, the Spaniard is also impressive at winning back possession, with an average of 1.2 interceptions per 90 in the Serie A ranking him second in the Como squad, while 64.2 accurate passes per 90 places him in third.
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The Gunners have made contact to sign a forward.