Espanyol offer Squillaci escape route from Arsenal

Arsenal defender Sebastien Squillaci is a target for Espanyol - but the Spanish side are struggling to meet the club’s £4m valuation.

The Gunners centre-back only joined the north London club last summer but he has been made a scapegoat for the defensive frailties in Arsene Wenger’s side, leading to the purchase of Per Mertesacker in August.

West Ham wanted to take the 31-year-old to Upton Park on loan in October but Arsenal are only interested in shifting the Frenchman on a permanent deal.

Spanish newspaper Sport reports that the mid-table La Liga side have approached Arsenal with an offer that is being considered.

But Espanyol have had well documented financial problems that mean they are struggling to keep hold of their own players, let alone acquire the services of others.

Russian club Anzhi are also reported to be monitoring the situation, with the £4m asking price posing no problems for the mega-rich Russian side.