Arsenal are reportedly aiming to beat Manchester United to Atletico Madrid defender, José Giménez.

Arsenal have been linked with the 21-year-old for a while now, as have the Red Devils. However, the fact that it’s continuing to be reported means that the media are interested enough to be keeping a close eye on the situation. Not that this says anything about the actual probability of us signing the youngster; remember Alexandre Lacazette?

According to reports, Atletico are asking for €55m for Giménez, which, considering the fact he’s only 21, a defender and has only made two appearances this season, is pretty bloomin’ steep if you ask me.

EINDHOVEN, NETHERLANDS - SEPTEMBER 13: Luciano Narsingh of PSV Eindhoven and José Gimenez of Atletico Madrid in action during the UEFA Champions League Group D match between PSV Eindhoven and Club Atletico de Madrid at Philips Stadion on September 13, 2016 in Eindhoven, Netherlands . (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
EINDHOVEN, NETHERLANDS – SEPTEMBER 13: Luciano Narsingh of PSV Eindhoven and José Gimenez of Atletico Madrid in action during the UEFA Champions League Group D match between PSV Eindhoven and Club Atletico de Madrid at Philips Stadion on September 13, 2016 in Eindhoven, Netherlands . (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

Although Per Mertesacker’s future at Arsenal isn’t exactly set in stone, we have plenty of other young centrebacks at the club, such as Rob Holding, who didn’t cost us an arm and a leg and would be capable to step in if needs be.

Saying all this, his contract with Atletico does run out in 2018. Perhaps his people are pushing for an improved deal and are therefore making it seem as if he has plenty of options to move. Maybe he genuinely could move.