Arsenal target Riqui Puig once labelled spectacular by Gennaro Gattuso

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Arsenal fans were alarmed on Tuesday with reports in Spain suggesting that Barcelona want Gabriel in a potential swap deal – with Riqui Puig one of the players who may be allowed to move the other way.

In truth, it is hard to see Gabriel leaving the Emirates unless Barca get very serious about their interest. But Gunners fans may not mind if the club pursue some of the Barcelona players apparently on their radar.

Memphis Depay is their top target. But there is some interest in Puig. And talks over the players have apparently taken place.

The 22-year-old has been in every single match day squad for Barca this season. However, game-time has not been easy for the Catalonian to come by. He has featured in one of their last 11 La Liga games.

It may come as a surprise to some that Puig has been so peripheral. Certainly, one of those who is a big admirer of the midfielder is Gennaro Gattuso.

The World Cup winner previously suggested that he had been taken aback by the youngster.

“Riqui is spectacular,” he said, as reported by Goal.

“Even though (Barca) have players that look like kids, the way they handle the ball amazes me. It’s the beauty of football. It’s like poetry.”

Arsenal signing Riqui Puig could be a superb deal – but fans won’t want Gabriel heading the other way

Puig looks to have an enormous amount of potential. And he must surely have questions about his future as he struggles for game-time.

It would be a hugely exciting deal if Arsenal could bring him to the Emirates. Of course, Mikel Arteta has already had some success when signing a 22-year-old midfielder from one of Spain’s giants.

But Arsenal fans will look at a deal a lot less favourably if Gabriel’s future is also discussed in any talks. The Gunners need to keep the centre-back unless they are offered crazy money.