The fullbacks position has been a position that Arsenal have been looking to strengthen in the past few years as there has been a considerable lack in depth. Stephan Litchtsteiner was brought in the summer to provide backup for Hector Bellerin. But the Swiss International is past it and this has shown as he lacks the pace to play at the level of the Premier League.
Juanfran is currently in the final year of his contract at the club, but Atletico Madrid have the option of an extra year if e makes 25 appearances this season. The right-back has already made 22 appearances and he is most likely to meet the milestone before the end of the season.
It is understood that Arsenal had reached out to the player’s representatives over a potential move to the Emirates. Juanfran is believed tobe happy in Spain and wants to finish his career at the Wanda Metropolitano.
Arsenal would have to move on from the disappointment and look for other players that fit the mould of an experienced fullback that Unai Emery desires.
Hector Bellerin is currently out on a long-term injury with Ainsley Maitland-Niles doing a good job as an emergency right back. Maitland-Niles is a midfielder and the Gunners would be best served to sign a specialist right-back ahead of next season.
Arsenal currently sits fourth in the Premier League table two points ahead of Manchester United with eight matches remaining. The Gunners entertain Newcastle in the last match of the week on Monday at the Emirates as they look to maintain their top four place.