Valencia are reportedly in talks with Manchester City over a potential transfer for centre-back Eliaquim Mangala, in case they lose the services of Shkodran Mustafi to Arsenal in the upcoming weeks.
The 24-year-old German defender has been heavily linked with a move to Arsenal in recent weeks, with reports now suggesting the Gunners are ready to step up their pursuit of the Valencia man after hearing Gabriel could be sidelined for up to two months with injury.
It’s been suggested that Arsenal are prepared to offer Valencia £30 million for Mustafi’s signature, and the Spanish club could be willing to sell after engaging in talks with City over a possible deal for Mangala.
Mustafi has been left out of the Valencia squad for today’s pre-season match with Nigeria All-Stars, which may give the Arsenal fans and Arsene Wenger some hope of seeing the German arrive at the Emirates soon.
However, the Mustafi deal to Arsenal appears to hinge on whether Valencia can snap up Mangala from City, with the Frenchman an obvious replacement for the Germany international.
This proposed transfer looks set to continue for a little while longer – hopefully Arsenal manage to sign a defender before the summer transfer window closes.
