Arsenal are reportedly intensifying their pursuit of Barcelona centre-back Eric García, as the club continues to show strong interest in Athletico Paranaense striker Vitor Roque.

BARCELONA, SPAIN - OCTOBER 26: Eric Garcia of FC Barcelona warms up prior to  the UEFA Champions League group C match between FC Barcelona and FC Bayern München at Spotify Camp Nou on October 26, 2022 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)
BARCELONA, SPAIN – OCTOBER 26: Eric Garcia of FC Barcelona warms up prior to the UEFA Champions League group C match between FC Barcelona and FC Bayern München at Spotify Camp Nou on October 26, 2022 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

In recent days, Arsenal have emerged as the front-runner in the race to sign Vitor Roque, with rivals Chelsea struggling with financial difficulties.

Sources close to the negotiations have revealed that Arsenal’s sporting director, Edu Gaspar, has been diligently working on both deals, hoping to strengthen the team ahead of the next season.

While Roque’s father and representatives are currently in London to discuss a potential move to England, it’s García’s situation that has caught the attention of Arsenal fans.

Eric García, a former Manchester City player, has had a challenging season with Barcelona, struggling for consistent playing time under manager Xavi Hernández.

With Iñigo Martínez reportedly secured by the Catalan club, García may be considering a move away from Camp Nou in search of more opportunities to showcase his talent.

Arsenal had previously attempted to sign García during the winter transfer window, but the young centre-back opted to stay with Barcelona at the time.

However, the current situation at Barcelona may have changed García’s perspective on his future with the club.

The Gunners are keen on adding García to their defensive ranks, as they believe the 22-year-old Spanish international possesses the potential to strengthen their backline.

García’s contract with Barcelona runs until 2026, but the player is said to be reluctant to endure another season like the current one.

Arsenal’s pursuit of both García and Roque indicates the club’s ambition to bolster its squad, as they look to compete at the highest level in the Premier League and beyond.

The coming months will reveal whether these pursuits prove fruitful, but for now, Arsenal fans have reason to be excited about the potential additions to their team.