According to Calciomercato, AC Milan are pushing ahead with talks over a deal for reported Arsenal target Marc Roca as they look to strengthen.
The Spain U21 international is set to leave Espanyol following their relegation from La Liga.
The Catalan club’s demise has come as a surprise considering the talent they have.
Roca, a classy holding midfielder with creative talent, is reportedly a ‘dream’ signing for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, according to a report in La Razon last week.
The Gunners are set to lose the burgeoning Dani Ceballos when he returns to Spanish champions Real Madrid from his loan spell at the Emirates Stadium this season.
Arteta will need to replace his creativity in midfield, and Roca fits the bill.
The 23-year-old ticks things over in a deep-lying playmaker role, averaging an 81.1% pass-accuracy rate while posting 2.3 tackles per game (Whoscored).
But the latest reports claims Arsenal have strong competition for his signature.
Calciomercato say AC Milan are heading to Catalunya for talks with Barcelona’s Emerson, but they will also push for talks over a deal for Roca.
The Serie A club are undergoing a change in their transfer philosophy. They now seek to sign top young talent with the potential to grow at the San Siro.
Espanyol, meanwhile, are seeking a £22 million fee for their prized asset.
If Arsenal are serious in their interest in Roca, then the North London club may have to act quickly.
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