Valencia are “aware” that Arsenal are interested in their young winger Carlos Soler, according to the Mirror. The Gunners reportedly made “discreet enquiries” before the 23-year-old signed a new three and a half year contract in December and have retained an interest in the player.

It is believed that head coach Mikel Arteta is keen for the Spaniard to be the centrepiece of his summer revamp of the squad, but the midfielder’s new deal could complicate matters.

Soler now has a £140m release clause, which could make negotiations over a potential transfer tricky, to say the least. The Mirror suggests a move for the winger may have to be funded by player sales.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Alexandre Lacazette and Matteo Guendouzi have been suggested as possible candidates, but much may depend on whether Arsenal can qualify for the Champions League this season.

The Gunners have two avenues to gain qualification, either through the league where fifth place could be enough or through the Europa League. They are still six points off Spurs, though, in the table so the alternative route may well be what Arteta is focusing on this season.