Arsenal are reportedly set
to pip Liverpool to the signature of Valencia's promising defender
Yago Fernandez.
The Portuguese defender is believed to be available for a
knock-down price of just £100,000 as he is only on an amateur
contract with their B team.
Reds boss Rafa Benitez had been tracking the Portugal Under 19
stopper, but Arsene Wenger's ability to work with youngsters has
tipped the scales in Arsenal's favour.
Fernandez has seen the likes of Cesc Fabregas snapped up from Liga
giants Barcelona to being given a chance to shine in England's
top-flight despite his tender age.
With the prospect of first-team football on the horizon for
Fernandez, he has opted against signing a professional deal in
Spain to move to the Premiership.
"This is the biggest opportunity of my life," he is quoted in the
Daily newspaper.
"I know Wenger works with young players and I will have more chance
at Arsenal than in Spain."