Manquillo

Atletico Madrid's promising right-back Javier Manquillo is likely to join Arsenal after Gunners officials approached his agent regarding a summer move, reports in Spain claim.

The Spaniard was set to move to Olympique de Marseille on loan until the end of next season, having already agreed terms with the Ligue 1 side.

However, several outlets in Spain including Mundo Deportivo suggest a last-minute call from the Gunners has changed Manquillo's mind, blocking his expected move to France.

Alhough Manquillo, 20, was happy to join the French club on loan he is reportedly even more excited over the positibility of a move to a club competing in next season's Champions League.

Wenger is desperately looking for a right-back to replace Bacary Sagna following his departure and it was understood that the club were in advance negotiations to secure Newcastle star Mathieu Debuchy – having also monitored World Cup sensation Serge Aurier.

However, Manquillo has emerged as a cheaper alternative as Atletico Madrid are likely to let him go on loan.

However, Mundo Deportivo report that Arsenal's demand to include an option to make the deal permanent at the end of the season could complicate the negotiations.

Manager Diego Simeone believes in Manquillo is a player for the future and is only willing to grant a loan move so he can continue his development. With Juanfran excelling in his position the youngster's chances at the Vicente Calderon next season will be scarce.

Manquillo is considered one of the most promising right-backs in La Liga and although he has only made 17 appearances for Atletico in the top-flight is currently a regular for Spain's Under-21 side, having already won the Under-19 European Championship in 2012

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers tried to secure his services during the January transfer window after launching an £8m bid but they failed to agree terms with Atletico, who wanted to include a buy-back clause as part of the deal.