Arsenal tried and failed to sign Barcelona’s Riqui Puig during January

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According to respected journalist and transfer guru, Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal tried and failed to sign Barcelona prodigy, Riqui Puig, during the January window.

Speaking on this week’s edition of the Here We Go Podcast, Romano revealed that Puig was indeed a player of interest to Arsenal, before they eventually landed Martin Odegaard from Madrid.

Romano claims that Barcelona were intially open to the idea of sending Puig on loan. But. ultimately, in the middle of January they changed their mind, opting to keep Puig in Spain for the time being.

Puig has previously been described as an exceptional talent by former Barcelona player Xavi, who commented that he ‘breathes talent’ when asked about the young midfielder in 2018.

Of course, Arsenal will be happy with Odegaard you would think for now. But Puig remains an intriguing option, especially if the Gunners decide not to move for Odegaard on a permanent basis in the summer.

TBR View: Puig a fine talent but Odegaard might be the better option for now

While Puig has plenty of talent in the locker and is a fine player, Arsenal needed someone to make an impact now really.

Odegaard is that bit more seasoned than the Barcelona man, given his spell with Real Sociedad last season.

However, Puig could still be someone for Arsenal to explore in the summer. Chances are always going to be difficult at Barca, especially to nail down a regular starting spot so the Gunners will no doubt keep a close eye on proceedings.

The Gunners could face competition from Leeds, however. The Whites were said to be in the running to land Puig themselves prior to January.