Arsenal Identify Villarreal Defender As Key Transfer Target

Ahead of the January transfer window, Arsenal have identify Villarreal defender as one of their main priorities in order to fix their leaky defence.

David Luiz and Sokratis Papastathopoulos have both proved inconsistent and their partnership has been calamitous on far too many occasions this season.

According to The Sun, Pau Torres has been identified as a top target with Emery considering a move for the highly-rated La Liga prospect.

Arsenal know the deal won’t be easy though and they may have to match his £43million release clause to prise him away from El Madrigal.

The reports claim they could look to persuade Villarreal the same way they negotiated with Lille for Nicolas Pepe.

The Emirates hierarchy paid a £20m fee upfront with the remaining £52m to be paid in installments over time.

Emery is aware that his leaky defense could cost him a place in the top four and effectively, his job.