Arsenal are closely monitoring Como’s highly rated centre-back Jacobo Ramon ahead of a potential summer move, according to The Athletic.
The need for defensive reinforcement has become an urgent necessity following William Saliba’s injury sustained at the World Cup semi-finals.
Saliba was forced off at the half-hour mark during France’s 2-0 loss to Spain after suffering discomfort in his back.
Although the full extent of the injury remains uncertain, Arsenal have confirmed the 25-year-old faces a significant spell on the sidelines.
An official statement on Arsenal’s website read: “Subsequent specialist reviews on William’s return to London this week have confirmed that he has suffered a back injury which will require a period of rehabilitation.”
The club’s statement continued: “William’s rehabilitation will commence immediately, with continual management of his injury, and he is expected to be out of action for an extended period.”
Arsenal are now exploring multiple centre-back options, with Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa also reported to be of interest to the Gunners, according to the Telegraph.
The Athletic reports that 21-year-old Ramon has been added to Arsenal’s list of centre-back targets, with the club closely tracking his development.
Chelsea are also monitoring the towering 6ft 5in Spaniard, meaning Arsenal face competition from a Premier League rival for his signature.
The deal is further complicated by Real Madrid holding a buy-back clause, as well as owning 50% of the player’s economic rights, per The Athletic.
Ramon established himself as one of the standout young centre-backs in Serie A and across Europe last season, with his Transfermarkt valuation sitting at £25m though he is expected to cost considerably more.
The Spain Under-21 international was dominant defensively, winning 182 duels, registering 116 recoveries, and making 122 clearances throughout the campaign.
His aerial presence is equally formidable, with 113 aerial duels won, giving Arsenal confidence he possesses the physical attributes to succeed in the Premier League.
Ramon’s technical quality is also notable, boasting a 91.4% pass success rate and accumulating 2,526 touches, underlining his importance in possession-based systems.