Atletico Madrid centre-back Jose Gimenez has told Uruguayan media that he wants to play in the Premier League.

The 22-year-old defender has been linked with Arsenal and Manchester United, according to The S*n.

The in-form defender is strong in the air and very versatile, having played a number of positions for Atletico in 2016/17.

He told the Uruguayan media:

“I dream of playing in the Premiership because the matches are very even. I would like to go, but if Atletico makes me a contract for life I will stay.“

Any potential move would be impacted by Atletico’s transfer ban, which means that they couldn’t replace him until January.

Although he has clearly here expressed an interest in playing the Premier League, it also seems clear that he doesn’t want to do anything to hurt Atletico, showing willingness to stay long-term if that’s what they want him to do.

From Arsenal’s point of view, they have a large number of centre-backs already at the club, although with injuries, a suspension for Laurent Koscielny and potential loan deals this number will be reduced for the first few games at least.

Bringing someone like Gimenez in would help that situation, but it doesn’t seem like a likely option given Atletico would be demanding a high fee for the defender.

*This post was updated after we accidentally got the player’s age wrong