Arsenal are reportedly monitoring Atletico Madrid defender Marc Pubill as manager Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his backline ahead of next season.

Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has reported that Arsenal have identified Pubill as a cheaper option to address their defensive needs this summer.

The Spanish international is currently valued at £30 million on Transfermarkt, making him a relatively attainable target for the Gunners.

Pubill, 23, has impressed during his time in La Liga and would represent an exciting long-term addition to the Arsenal squad.

The arrival of Cristian Romero at Atletico Madrid means the club already has significant depth in central defensive areas, making a sale more plausible.

With Romero now on board in Madrid, Atletico may be willing to move Pubill on should a suitable offer arrive this summer.

Pubill featured in only 19 La Liga matches last season, suggesting he is not guaranteed regular first-team football at his current club.

A move to Arsenal could offer him considerably more playing time given the sheer volume of fixtures across the English football calendar.

Standing at over six feet tall, the Spanish international is strong aerially and capable of making brilliant blocks, tackles, and interceptions across the defensive line.

He is also comfortable in possession and can drive the ball forward effectively, giving him the versatility to operate at right back when required.

His ability to contribute both defensively and in the build-up phase makes him an attractive profile for Arteta’s possession-based system at the Emirates.

At 23, Pubill has plenty of room to develop further and could prove to be one of the shrewder pieces of business Arsenal complete this transfer window.

James is a UK-based staff writer and has been writing about sports and entertainment news for over six years.