Ever Banega is drawing interest from Arsenal, and in particular new head coach Unai Emery, who got the best out of him in Spain.

Orgullo de Nervion, a reliable Spanish outlet for Sevilla news, report that Arsenal have ‘jumped to the fore’ in the race for the player, and attribute that largely to the Gunners new head coach. They also reveal that Banega has a €20m release clause with his current club.

Up until now, Sevilla reportedly hadn’t even contemplated losing the midfielder. Orgullo de Nervion call him the ‘axis’ of the team, and lament the fact he is so affordable to a club like Arsenal.

Kike Marin wrote on Twitter on Wednesday morning that after practically closing the signing of Lucas Torreira, Emery wants to move on to Banega. Recent reports also suggest that Banega’s agent is travelling to London for talks in the coming days.

Banega would be a relatively low-cost replacement for Jack Wilshere, who announced on Tuesday that he’s leaving the club. The Argentine is a very strong passer, creating chances for his teammates well, as well as being a bit of a set-piece specialist, and scoring the odd goal.

Let’s see how strongly Arsenal push for a deal now.