Arsenal are hoping to complete a deal to sign Atletico Madrid right-back Javier Manquillo after moving ahead of Marseille.
The Gunners have been in prolonged talks to sign the player, while French club Marseille have also made an offer to sign the youngster.
However, it is now believed that Manquillo has taken on step further to joining Arsenal, as the Gunners have offered to pay £6.3m if the player’s loan-spell is successfull.
This has dampened Marseille’s spirits, as they hoped they could secure just a loan-deal for the Spanish right-back, creating doubts in the Atletico camp wether the club are serious about their player.
Arsenal now hope to close the transfer quickly, with the 20-year-old’s arrival set to allow them the chance to send Carl Jenkinson out on loan, in a bid to gain experience.
A quick and athletic defender who can play at right-back or at left-back, Manquillo is a Spain Under-20 international.
By Ollie Brown follow me on twitter: @ollbrowner
