Word stemming from Spain on Monday suggests that Arsenal are considering a move for Espanyol star Raul de Tomas.

The Gunners’ sudden links to de Tomas come as the reality of the situation begins to set in regarding the efforts of Edu Gaspar and the transfer team in north London to lure Fiorentina sensation Dusan Vlahovic to the club this month.

As per a report from Mundo Deportivo, citing Diario AS, a deal for Vlahovic has been identified as a near ‘impossibility’ on the part of those in a position of power at the Emirates.

Arsenal turn attentions towards La Liga hitman as reality of Vlahovic situation sets in

FLORENCE, ITALY – JANUARY 17: Dusan Vlahovic of ACF Fiorentina celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Genoa CFC at Stadio Artemio Franchi on January 17, 2022 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

In turn, alternative options are being sought, with Mikel Arteta evidently of the opinion that his squad remains in dire need of reinforcements up top.

And one such target has been identified in the form of de Tomas, boasting 12 goals in 21 La Liga appearances this season – a record only bettered by Real Madrid talisman Karim Benzema.

Unfortunately for those of a Gunners persuasion hopeful of seeing RdT arrive at the club over the coming week, however, a deal, as things stand, looks far from likely.

This comes amid the suggestion that Espanyol will not be willing to negotiate an exit for their star striker unless his release clause – set at a hefty 70 million euro – is met.

North Londoners stuttering

News of Arsenal stepping up their pursuit of fresh blood up top of course comes on the back of a toothless attacking display on the part of the capital giants this past weekend.

Amid the club’s concerted efforts to secure a crucial top-4 spot in the Premier League, Arteta’s troops welcomed bottom-of-the-table Burnley to the Emirates on Sunday afternoon.

When all was said and done, however, Sean Dyche’s visitors stood tall, securing a share of the spoils in a 0-0 stalemate, and dealing Arsenal’s Champions League hopes a considerable blow in the process.

 

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