Arsenal are among five of the ‘big six’ interested in signing Rennes midfielder Benjamin Bourigeaud, according to reports in the Spanish media.

The likes of Liverpool, Manchester United, Chelsea, Tottenham, as well as a number of Italian teams, are after the 25-year-old who excelled in Ligue One last season.

Most Gunners fans will remember him for his very impressive display during the 3-1 defeat that the Gunners suffered in the Europa League back in March.

Bourigeaud’s excellent half-volley just before half-time triggered a difficult second half for the London club. On the night, he played on the left-wing but his versatility makes him an excellent squad player.

He played as a holding midfielder, a central midfielder, a right winger and a left winger last season, scoring nine goals and providing ten assists in 52 appearances for Rennes.

Bourigeaud is a set-piece specialist as well, with a devilish delivery from corners as well scoring directly from free kicks on occasions. The midfielder is also the French club’s penalty taker.

His all-round play is pretty decent too, delivering long raking diagonal passes, as well as through balls over the top of defences. He does like a tackle or two but his ten yellow cards last season suggest his talents lie elsewhere.

Bourigeaud would certainly not be a direct replacement for someone like Aaron Ramsey, and would probably be closer to someone like Santi Cazorla in style.

Since the Spaniard left, the Gunners have lacked some guile in the middle of the park so perhaps Arsenal are considering the Frenchman for a role in central midfield.

Alternatively, he may be being eyed for a role out wide, although Bourigeaud would probably lack the pace that Emery would be looking for. His superb delivery of the ball, whipping crosses into the box could, though, provide ideal ammunition for the likes of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette.

However, the biggest factor in his favour seems to be the asking price that Rennes have set. Reports indicate that Sevilla have had a €12m offer rejected for the midfielder but he could be signed for just €20m (£18m).

For a player of his ability, that price tag could make him a very economical purchase. Considering Arsenal’s limited transfer funds, it could well be the reason why the club are apparently pursuing Bourigeaud.