Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger looks set to enter talks with Barcelona over the signing of youth midfielder Sergi Samper. The Catalan club are keen to keep hold of the youngster, but are powerless if the player himself wants the move and his release clause is met.

Wenger is a known admirer of Samper from years back, the Frenchman apparently tried to sign the Spaniard in 2011 when he brought full back Hector Bellerin to the club. The 20-year-old’s progress since has been impressive, he made his Champions League debut last season and has staked a small claim in Barcelona’s senior side, although he is predominantly a B team player.

Sergi Samper has often been compared to team mate Sergio Busquets due to his strength is in keeping possession and his fantastic touch and passing ability. Incidentally, it is Busquets who is seemingly keeping Samper from progressing in Barcelona’s senior set-up as the 27-year-old looks unlikely to budge his holding midfield position for some time yet.

The 20-year-old’s buyout clause currently stands at £8.5 million, and the player is said to be keeping his options open, especially since Barca B were relegated to the third tier of Spanish football last season. Wenger is believed to be chasing a potential holding midfielder in time for next season’s campaign, and Samper could fit the bill.

Barcelona manager Luis Enrique is keen to keep hold of the youngster, and wants the player sent on loan in order to give him regular first team experience. Porto are coached by former Barca keeper Julen Lopetegui and the club would prefer he went to Portugal.

However, if Arsenal activate the players release clause, there is very little Barcelona can do if Samper pushes the move.