Athletic Bilbao could look to sign Arsenal defender Nacho Monreal as a possible replacement for Aymeric Laporte, it has been claimed.
Laporte is reportedly close to joining Manchester City as the Citizens are set to trigger his release clause, with the 23-year-old also having agreed on a switch to the Etihad Stadium.
And according to Spanish daily Mundo Deportivo, Athletic Bilbao could look at the possibility of signing Monreal to fill Laporte’s boots in defence.
Monreal, who returned to action in the 4-1 win over Crystal Palace last weekend after recovering from an injury, has made 20 Premier League appearances in the present campaign.
Despite primarily being a full-back, the 31-year-old has been mostly used as a centre-back by Gunners boss Arsene Wenger this season.
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In addition to helping his side’s defence, Monreal has also chipped in with three goals and two assists in the league.
It is believed that the former Malaga man would suit Athletic Bilbao coach Jose Angel Ziganda’s playing style.
Besides Monreal, Real Sociedad’s Inigo Martinez is also on the radar of Los Leones.
