Arsenal transfer news: Unai Emery identifies three midfielders to replace contract rebel Aaron Ramsey – reports
The Wales international will leave the Emirates for free at the end of the season, but the club are wasting no time in identifying replacements
Arsenal manager Unai Emery has reportedly identified three midfielders he wants to replace contract rebel Aaron Ramsey.
The north London side confirmed on Thursday the 27-year-old, who has been at the club since 2008, would not be renewing his current deal at the Emirates stadium.
As a result, he will officially leave the club in the summer for free - with Liverpool and Manchester United reportedly interested in acquiring his services.
However, former Paris Saint-Germain boss Emery is wasting little time in seeking out potential replacements for the wantaway midfielder.
According to , head of recruitment Sven Mislintant has helped Emery identify Nicolo Barella, Miguel Almiron and Hector Herrera as transfer targets.
Cagliari midfielder Barella has already attracted attention from some of the Premier League's top sides and has made it no secret he would be keen to play in England.
Speaking in September,the 21-year-old said: "I’m not the one who sorts out the transfers.
“The interest from big clubs is pleasing, and makes me proud. It means I’m doing the right things.”
Atlanta United midfielder Almiron is another star who has reportedly caught the eye.
The 24-year-old scored 12 times and provided a further 13 assists this season in MLS and is wanted by West Ham United and Tottenham, if reports are to be believed.
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The final reported target is Herrera - the current captain of Porto.
At 28, he represents the safer option of the trio. After five years in the Primeira Liga, the defensive midfielder is winding down his contract and is seeking pastures new.
The Mexican could be brought in as a cost-saving measure, to compensate losing Ramsey for nothing as well.