Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal make first move for Rangers’ Emmanuel Fernandez

Arsenal have made their first decisive move in the race to sign Emmanuel Fernandez, with Rangers slapping a staggering £35 million price tag on their in-demand centre-back, Afrik Foot reports.

The 24-year-old Nigerian international has enjoyed a sensational debut campaign at Ibrox, transforming from a relatively low-profile arrival into one of the most talked-about defenders in Europe

As per Rangers News, the Gunners are currently leading the chase for Fernandez, who only joined Rangers from Peterborough United for a £3.5 million fee.

Less than a year later, the Scottish giants could be staring at a tenfold profit.

Arsenal weighing up Emmanuel Fernandez move

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal are understood to have intensified their interest as they look to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the new campaign.

With the Gunners eager to build a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts, Fernandez has emerged as a serious target.

The Record FA Cup winners are believed to be undeterred by Rangers’ £35m valuation. Given the inflation in the current transfer market and Fernandez’s rapid rise, Arsenal’s hierarchy view the asking price as reflective of both potential and performance.

Fernandez’s stock has skyrocketed in recent months, not only because of his ability, but also because of his reputation as well, having impressed in his first two games as Nigerian International.

Arsenal are not alone in the race. Premier League rivals, including Chelsea, Everton, and West Ham United are also monitoring the situation closely.

Meanwhile, heavyweights in Germany, FC Bayern Munich, Bayer 04 Leverkusen, and Borussia Dortmund, have all been credited with an interest in the Rangers star.

However, the report mentioned that Bayern Munich are reluctant to meet Rangers’ financial demands, potentially giving English clubs a clearer pathway should a bidding war erupt.

In the meantime, Fernandez has set his eyes on winning the SPFL with Rangers as they’ve usurped Hearts and Celtic at the top of the table.