Raul De Tomas has reportedly emerged on Arsenal’s radar as a potential target, but the Gunners do not plan on triggering his €70 million release clause.
According to Fichajes, Arsenal are interested in Raul De Tomas as their search for a new striker continues. The Espanyol star has a release clause worth €70 million, which the Catalan club will demand, although suitors value the Spaniard much less.
Last season, Raul De Tomas was one of La Liga’s prolific strikers, netting 17 goals in Espanyol’s return to the top flight. Moreover, his contribution helped them finish comfortably in mid-table, thus preserving their status in the premier tier.
His performances have attracted interest from top clubs Europe, which could allow him to take his career to the next level. The report suggests Arsenal and Atletico Madrid are looking at the striker as a possible new arrival this summer, while Real Madrid were also briefly interested a while ago.
Atletico Madrid are looking at various options to replace Luis Suarez and may consider an approach for the 27-year-old Spanish international. As for Arsenal’s interest, Mikel Arteta has been extensively searching for a new frontman to strengthen his squad.
Arsenal are the front-runners to sign Gabriel Jesus, and a new offer looks imminent. The Brazilian is on the list of many other big clubs, but the Gunners have stolen the march over their rivals in the chase for the Manchester City forward.
Media stories have linked the Gunners with numerous other options from all top leagues elsewhere. Giovanni Simeone’s name was linked recently, although those could be whispers from Italian publications as a follow-up to the stories connecting Gianluca Scamacca with Arsenal.
And now, Arsenal are mentioned as potential suitors for Raul De Tomas. The report claims that suitors, including the Gunners, are keeping tabs on his situation after a terrific 2021/22 season. However, Espanyol’s asking price could prove problematic.
De Tomas has a release clause of €70 million attached to his deal, which Espanyol demand be paid in full. The Gunners and other suitors reportedly value the striker around €30 million or lower. The north Londoners are unlikely to pay anywhere closer to the €70 million exit clause.
Arsenal have a limited budget, and spending exorbitant sums on a 27-year-old with no re-sale value goes against their current policy. In any case, De Tomas is a solid striker and could thrive at any club he plays. However, his future could be at Espanyol if the Catalans do not drastically reduce their asking price.
