Arsenal are leading the race to sign Villarreal centre-back Pau Torres over Manchester City and Chelsea, according to reports.

Real Madrid's French forward Karim Benzema (2L) challenges Villarreal's Spanish defender Pau Torres during the Spanish league football match Villarreal CF against Real Madrid CF at La Ceramica stadium in Vila-real on September 1, 2019. (Photo by Josep LAGO / AFP / Getty Images)
Real Madrid’s French forward Karim Benzema (2L) challenges Villarreal’s Spanish defender Pau Torres during the Spanish league football match Villarreal CF against Real Madrid CF at La Ceramica stadium in Vila-real on September 1, 2019. (Photo by Josep LAGO / AFP / Getty Images)

90min report that Arsenal have expressed a strong interest in Torres and are planning a move for the defender next summer. The player has a release clause of between €50m and €75m, after signing a new contract with Villarreal in October.

The Gunners are hoping to do a deal for less after former Arsenal man Santi Cazorla tipped Unai Emery off about Torres. Arsenal are confident they’re at the front of the queue for him, despite the new contract and interest from Chelsea and City.

After slowly working his way through the ranks with Villarreal, Torres spent last season on loan with Malaga, where he made 40 appearances in all competitions.

The defender’s performances were sufficiently impressive to put him straight into the starting lineup for his parent club this season, and he’s played every minute of their league campaign so far.

Most recently he scored against Osasuna before being called up for Spain over the international break. The defender’s reputation only seems to be going in one direction, so Arsenal may well face more competition by next summer.