Ahead of the next week's much-anticipated clash between Arsenal and Manchester United, both sides have encountered differing fortunes as the Gunners have established themselves as one of the title contenders whereas United are struggling to prove that they are top four worthy under Jose Mourinho. However, off the field, both the teams are said to be battling for Atletico Madrid's Jose Gimenez, with both the sides searching for options in defence.
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Gimenez is proving to be one of the best young defenders to watch out for as the 21-year-old has done well since making his debut for the Diego Simeone’s managed side. The young centre-back is said to be one of the best in his position and his leadership qualities are said to have garnered interest from Europe's top sides. Besides Arsenal and Manchester United, Real Madrid and PSG were also rumoured to be interested in the defender.
Spanish publication Don Balon has revealed that Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger is an admirer of the 21-year-old and has stepped up efforts to bring him to the Emirates. It is rumoured that Arsenal are willing to pay £26 million for the Uruguayan but his £56 million release clause set by the Madrid side will be an issue for anyone interested in Gimenez. Jose Mourinho too is said to be pondering over the idea of trying to sign him but his high asking price might become a hindrance.
The Gunners have found a stable centre-back partnership in the form of Laurent Koscielny and Shkodran Mustafi but do not have enough firepower on the bench as the duo of Per Mertesacker and Gabriel have failed to prove themselves over the course of a season.
Similarly, Mourinho is unhappy with the defensive options available at Old Trafford and wants to bring a centre-back in the next transfer window. Jose Gimenez being one of the most sought South American defenders in recent times has been obviously linked with the Premier League giants.
Manchester United are currently sixth on the table while Arsenal are fourth as both the sides face off next week. The Gunners are currently working behind the scenes to secure the futures of their star players in Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez whereas Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho will look to continue his supreme winning record against Arsene Wenger when the two men go head to head next weekend.
