Former Arsenal manager Unai Emery has hinted that Yeremy Pino could leave Villarreal this summer if a suitable offer arrives for the 19-year-old.
The Gunners are thought to be in the market for a new winger after missing out on Raphinha earlier in the transfer window. Mikel Arteta has made it no secret that Arsenal are continuing to try and secure more incoming signings before the deadline, whilst also admitting the club need to "find solutions" for a number of players already in his squad.
The North London outfit have been heavily linked with a move for Pino in recent weeks but are said to face competition from Premier League rivals Liverpool for the 19-year-old's signature. Emery revealed in a press conference this week that should a suitable offer arrive for players like Pino, the club would have to accept due to the financial situation the La Liga side find themselves in.
READ MORE: Arsenal given double Yeremy Pino registration boost as Mikel Arteta finds his own Alexis Sanchez
The Spanish international fits into the Arsenal criteria of being young at 19, but is not totally inexperienced with a season of first team football at Unai Emery's Villarreal under his belt, and now the former Arsenal manager has seemingly opened the door for Pino to leave Villarreal this summer.
Speaking to the media ahead of the Yellow Submarine's game against Valladolid, Emery said: "If an offer arrives for players like Yeremy Pino, then he will have to leave. We have a responsibility with the club. It is what it is."
The Spanish manager's response implies Villarreal will sell if a respectable bid arrives, which suggests to that the Champions League semi-finalists need to raise some funds to reinvest in the squad. Tottenham midfielder Giovanni Lo Celso is close to returning to the La Liga side on a season-long loan deal this summer, according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, after spending the second half of last season on loan with Emery's side.
Pino, who can play centrally or on the wing, would cost between €40million - €50 million (£33.8million - £42.3million) according to widespread reports, but Arsenal have shown that they are willing to pay what it takes when they view a target as essential. The Gunners would need to act quickly if they were to complete a deal for the 19-year-old with Liverpool still interested in signing the talented forward, especially with Villarreal willing to accept a fee much lower than Pino's reported release clause of £67million.
READ NEXT:
Pino starts, Jesus focal - Mikel Arteta's dream Arsenal attack with Odegaard and Smith Rowe fit
Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: All the latest updates and rumours from the Emirates Stadium
Full Arsenal Premier League fixture list for 2022/23
Arsenal transfer business under the microscope in 'good deal' or 'bad deal'
Real Betis hand Arsenal £5m transfer ultimatum as Edu faces last-minute test to rescue reputation
