Sevilla’s midfielder, Vicente Iborra, admits that the buy-out clause of £22m for Grzegorz Krychowiak is concerning amid ongoing speculation that Arsenal could move for the player.

Arsene Wenger has already dismissed claims that the Gunners are looking to land the defensive midfielder however that has not stopped the rumours continuing to surface on a regular basis.

Speaking after the game against West Ham, Wenger said “We are working very hard. We are focused to strengthen our squad. The availability is not big.

SAN PEDRO DE PINATAR, SPAIN - JULY 19: Grzegorz Krychowiak of Sevilla in action during a Pre Season Friendly match between Sevilla and Alcorcon at Pinatar Arena Stadium on July 19, 2015 in San Pedro de Pinatar, Spain. (Photo by Manuel Queimadelos Alonso/Getty Images)
SAN PEDRO DE PINATAR, SPAIN – JULY 19: Grzegorz Krychowiak of Sevilla in action during a Pre Season Friendly match between Sevilla and Alcorcon at Pinatar Arena Stadium on July 19, 2015 in San Pedro de Pinatar, Spain. (Photo by Manuel Queimadelos Alonso/Getty Images)

“When you lose a game, you get that kind of demand [to sign players]. Could we have won that game without any additions? I say yes.” He was then asked directly if he was interested in Krychowiak and he simply replied “No”.

That, of course, means little at this time of year and the media have all-but disregarded his comments to produce more and more links between the two, and with an attractive buyout clause in play, the Spanish side would be powerless to stop any side determined to land the 25-year-old Pole.

“Of course I am concerned that Krychowiak could be taken away,” Iborra said. “I always want to have the best players in the team. He brings so much. I hope he stays. I understand Sevilla’s position, it is clear, and I hope nobody pays that clause, and he stays with us.”

The coverage of Arsenal’s alleged chase for a defensive midfielder has been relentless but, as we’ve frequently mentioned here, we’re not at all sure that Wenger is trying to sign that type of player at all.

He has had ample opportunity to do so but hasn’t bothered yet, preferring to use midfielders who have more to their game than just defensive qualities. And Francis Coquelin, of course.