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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Sam Elliott

Arsenal transfer news: The 3 issues Gunners face in Samuel Umtiti pursuit

It appears Arsenal are going big as they look to get to the bottom of their defensive issues.

The Gunners are reportedly very interested in doing a deal for France international Samuel Umtiti this summer.

The Barcelona man only signed a new contract in June - and if what's rumoured is correct, it includes a release clause of a staggering £430million.

But there are claims in Spain that the Catalan giants would be willing to part with him as they attempt to lure Ajax centre-back Matthijs de Ligt to the Camp Nou.

But Arsenal face three big problems.

Samuel Umtiti has had troublesome knee problems (SIPA USA/PA Images)

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Finances

Quite simply, he will cost too much money.

Even if Barca are looking to sell, the Gunners - who have already said they won't spend big this summer - surely will be out-bid by others.

Prioritising other positions

A left-back, a wide attacker and a replacement for Aaron Ramsey could all be considered more pressing concerns.

Could they really blow their budget on one man?

Umtiti knee problem

Sceptics say this is the reason why the La Liga leaders are ready to talk.

He has missed a fair number of games this season and the issue never really goes away.

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Is Alaba in-coming?

But could the answer to their left-back issue be David Alaba?

Lucas Hernandez's move to Bayern Munich could well open the door for the 26-year-old to move to north London.

Meanwhile, Joan Jordan of Eibar may be the man tasked with filling Ramsey’s boots.

Spanish newspaper Marca suggest Arsenal are looking to bring him in during the close season - and that the 24-year-old is keen.

He is well within budget - the midfielder has a £13m release clause.

Arsenal are back in Premier League action on Monday night when they host Newcastle .

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