MIKEL ARTETA has been linked to the Barcelona job – and could bring a couple of Arsenal stars with him.
According to Catalan radio station RAC1, the Gunners boss is on Joan Laporta’s shortlist if he wins the upcoming club presidential election.
Laporta, 58, will give Ronald Koeman the rest of the season before making a decision on his future.
Barcelona legend Xavi is thought to be the No1 alternative to the Dutchman.
But Arteta has been named on the shortlist if the job becomes available to other candidates.
The former midfielder began his career at the Nou Camp but never played for the first-team before signing for Paris Saint-Germain.
His relationship with Catalan icon Pep Guardiola, who he worked alongside at Manchester City for three years, could also entice the club.
Should Arteta make the jump, he may abandon Koeman’s move for Lyon star Memphis Depay.
But the deal to take Eric Garcia from Manchester City is reportedly done and dusted.
The centre-back could line up alongside Hector Bellerin, another long-term target of the club.
Presidential frontrunner Laporta has reportedly reached an agreement to try and land the Barcelona academy product this summer.
It has also been claimed that Arteta, 38, has given his blessing to Bellerin’s exit at the end of the season.
Should the job fall to the Arsenal manager, he may choose to go back to the Emirates and bid for another of their star talents.
A move for Bukayo Saka would test both sides’ ambition as well as their precarious finances.
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Topping off the attack, presuming a new deal can be agreed with Lionel Messi, could be one of the Argentine’s big pals.
Sergio Aguero’s Manchester City contract runs out in the summer and a reunion with Arteta may be feasible.
SunSport reported earlier this year that Barcelona are keen on the 32-year-old, who has been told to earn his new City deal but tallies just two goals all season.
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