Arsenal transfer news: Raul de Tomas deal with massive discount excites Arteta, but key problem lingers

Arsenal have reportedly reignited interest in a transfer for Raul de Tomas, amid the prospect of a cheaper deal than his £60million release clause.

The Gunners are searching for more firepower as they look to progress further under manager Mikel Arteta. Despite having a firm grip on a top-four Premier League finish last season, their form slipped in the final stages of the campaign.

The lack of a long-term striker option did not help their cause. Arteta is therefore looking to bolster his ranks this summer.

Several players have had mentions as Arsenal targets. Arteta reportedly admires Roma’s Tammy Abraham and Gabriel Jesus of Manchester City. Real Madrid’s Marco Asensio could also be an option.

However, Espanyol striker De Tomas is a more long-term target. And SuperDeporte now claims that the Spaniard is once again on Arsenal’s radar.

He has a €70million (£60million) release clause in his contract, which could have priced Arsenal out of a deal.

But the report claims that Espanyol would find it hard to turn down a bid of around €25million (£21million).

De Tomas developed in Real Madrid’s academy before finally leaving on a permanent deal to Benfica in 2019. Since January 2020, though, he has been back in Spain and has impressed with Espanyol.

Indeed, he scored four goals in his first four La Liga games with the club amid their relegation to the Spanish second division.

In the 2020/21 season, his 23 league goals helped fire Espanyol back to La Liga and De Tomas scored 17 goals last term.

Espanyol recently announced a new manager in former Granada boss Diego Martinez ahead of next season.

And despite their financial stance allowing a decent deal for Arsenal, Espanyol hope to keep their star striker.

They think Martinez,