Arsenal Opinion: Two Nacho Monreal replacements Arsenal should consider

According to a report from Football Espana, Arsenal defender Nacho Monreal is a target for Spanish giants Barcelona.

The Spaniard, 33, joined Arsenal from Malaga back in 2013 and has been a consistent performer over the years at the Emirates Stadium. He rarely makes errors at the back and has been one of the most productive defenders for the Gunners in recent seasons.

However, Nacho Monreal’s contract at Arsenal expires this summer and Barcelona are plotting a summer swoop on a free transfer to deputise for Jordi Alba. The Spanish international is 33 and past his prime.

With Monreal set to become a free agent in the summer, here are take a look at two potential replacements for the left-back.

1. Junior Firpo (Real Betis)

Junior Firpo has been one of the stars for Real Betis this season, impressing under the guidance of astute Quique Setien.

The 22-year-old is a left-back by trade, but he can also operate as a left midfielder, and even at centre-back if needed. And his performances haven’t gone unnoticed, with Arsenal one of the clubs tracking his progress.

The Gunners have been very poor defensively this season which should prompt Unai Emery to make some defensive reinforcements ahead of the 2019/20 campaign. Junior Firpo would be a real deal as he will not only be a potential long-term replacement for Monreal but also add much-needed quality to Arsenal’s defence.

And as the left-back could be available for just £26 million this summer, as per El Gol Digital, Emery should not think twice in splashing the cash for the Betis star.

2. Nicolas Tagliafico (Ajax)

Nicolas Tagliafico has been one of the keys to Ajax’s success this season, especially in the Champions League. He has been outstanding for the Dutch giants, both offensively and defensively.

The Argentinean has established himself as a first-team regular, thus becoming an important player in Erik Ten Haag’s system. The 26-year-old has a habit of bursting forward and getting himself into goalscoring positions, operating in an aggressive manner which makes him tailor-made for a manager like Emery.

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Tagliafico is 26 and will enter the prime years of his career. Hence, he would be worth every penny if Arsenal are willing to invest big in him. Just like Firpo, the Argentina international, who has rejected a new deal at Ajax, is also linked with a move to the North Londoners.