Arsenal targets emerging La Liga talent in a possible €35m deal on

Arsenal are now focusing their recruitment efforts in Spain, having seen great success with Martin Odegaard, Mikel Merino, Martin Zubimendi, and Cristhian Mosquera. The Gunners have turned their attention to a rising star in La Liga enjoying a breakout season.

Alberto Moleiro, the Villarreal playmaker, has long been touted for greatness since his early days with Las Palmas. He nearly made a €25m transfer to Barcelona, which fell through. After two impressive seasons with Las Palmas, he has made significant strides since joining Villarreal for €16m.

Arsenal interested in January move for Moleiro

Image via Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images

Per The Daily Briefing, Arsenal are considering a move for Moleiro in January. They believe adding depth in the final third is necessary and have been monitoring Moleiro for some time, alongside interest from Manchester City, Liverpool, and Atletico Madrid. His versatility is a key factor for manager Mikel Arteta.

A deal could be negotiated for approximately €35m with Villarreal, likely involving add-ons and/or a sell-on clause.

Villarreal in strong negotiating position

Villarreal is not under pressure to sell in January. As the third-largest spenders in Spain's transfer market, with €108m spent, they posted a net profit of €6m, having sold players like Alex Baena, Thierno Barry, and Yeremy Pino. Moleiro is highly valued, and with Villarreal aiming for Champions League qualification next season, manager Marcelino Garcia Toral is unlikely to entertain selling one of his key players midseason. Therefore, Villarreal may demand a higher transfer fee.