La Liga side FC Barcelona have joined Arsenal in the race to sign Feyenoord’s attacking midfielder Orkun Kokcu this summer, as per reports in Netherlands.
The 19-year-old has come up through the ranks at Feyenoord and this season he has caught the attention of some of the big clubs in Europe during his 22 appearances in the Eredivisie.
And Premier League side Arsenal have been the frontrunners for the longest time in the signing the attacking midfielder, despite interest from clubs like Sevilla and also Chelsea.
The report claims: “Orkun Kökcü is seen as a player on which Feyenoord can earn a lot. The midfielder enjoys the interest of major clubs such as Arsenal and Sevilla.
“And the fact that FC Barcelona has also inquired about the talent, strengthens Feyenoord in the idea that a record transfer may take place.
“Kökcü has a contract until 2023 and for his development, it would be ideal for Feyenoord if he still plays one full season in Rotterdam. But if there is an offer that cannot be refused, he may leave De Kuip earlier than planned.”
Will Orkun Kokcu join Barcelona?
This interest from Barcelona is really unfavourable news for Arsenal since the Gunners are already in talks with Feyenoord over the signing of Orkun Kokcu for a potential deal of around £23million.
This price tag is perfectly suited for Barcelona who are looking to add a couple of midfield reinforcements to the club this summer more so with Philippe Coutinho possibly heading out pretty soon.
And some experts doubt that if a club like Barcelona come calling, Orkun Kokcu might snub a move to Arsenal and head to Spain in the summer.
It’s still not clear as to how serious Barcelona’s interest is in the young man but Arsenal will have to buckle up and prepare for a potential bidding war.
The Gunners are expected to bid in the region of £20 million but now they have no other option but to up the stakes especially if Arteta is serious about finding a long-term solution to players like Dani Ceballos and Mesut Ozil.
