Arsenal are reportedly chasing Argentinian teenager Ezequiel Barco.
According to AS Argentina, Arsenal are in the race to sign Atlanta United playmaker Ezequiel Barco, alongside Portuguese giants Benfica.
The Gunners lost their Europa League final clash with Chelsea on Wednesday night, meaning there is no Champions League football for Unai Emery’s side.
Emery still needs reinforcements, but the lack of Champions League football will greatly impact Arsenal’s budget, with a frugal summer required.
Still, Arsenal are being linked with new signings, and AS Argentina report that Arsenal are battling Benfica for Atlanta United ace Barco.
Barco, 20, emerged in his native Argentina with Independiente, and despite being touted as the ‘next Lionel Messi’ and being linked with a host of European clubs, he chose to join Atlanta United in January 2018.
The 5ft 5in playmaker didn’t immediately take Major League Soccer by storm, but Miguel Almiron’s move to Newcastle United has placed increased importance on Barco, and he’s notched four goals and three assists in 12 games this term.
Currently, Barco is on international duty with Argentina at the Under-20 World Cup in Poland, and after scoring twice against South Africa, he’s attracting interest.
Arsenal are keeping tabs, and whilst it may be too soon for a move right now, he could be on Unai Emery’s radar moving forward.
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