Fabian Ruiz and Jack Wilshere among Arthur alternatives for Barcelona

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  • Barcelona have long since been linked with Arthur but with their option to buy the Gremio star set at €35 million, the club’s hierarchy are having second thoughts.

    Andres Iniesta has announced that he will be leaving Camp Nou at the end of the season and that means the Catalans have a spot open in midfield.

    There’s certainly no replacing the iconic Spaniard but Arthur was expected to come in and help fill the void.

    Barcelona appear to be on the look out for alternatives to the Brazilian though and there are some affordable candidates around.

    FABIAN RUIZ

    Barca reportedly sent scouts to watch Fabian Ruiz in Real Betis’ 0-0 draw with Atletico Madrid as they step up their interest in the Spain U21 international.

    The creative midfielder has been central to Betis’ impressive La Liga campaign, leading them to fifth in the table with four games remaining, providing six assists and two goals along the way.

    Following the departure of Dani Ceballos to Real Madrid last summer, Ruiz has established himself in an entertaining Betis side.

    His composure on the ball and range of passing are among his standout qualities and should hold him in good stead at Barca.

    At just 22, he would be an investment for the future.

    Fabian Ruiz (l).

    Fabian Ruiz (l).

    JEAN MICHAEL SERI

    It seemed as if Jean Michael Seri was destined to be a Barcelona player ahead of this season but the deal with Nice mysteriously broke down.

    Some reports suggest that Barca were the ones who pulled the plug at the last minute for tactical reasons while others claim it was Nice who demanded more money at the eleventh hour.

    Either way, it doesn’t change the fact that he would be a worthwhile addition to the Blaugrana squad. While he’s not a renowned pass-master, he’s got the energy and skill to create openings.

    The 26-year-old is strong, a good dribbler and known for his driving runs forward. He’s been a mainstay in Nice’s starting XI during his three seasons with the Ligue 1 outfit.

    Do Barca dare dive back into negotiations with Nice though?

    Jean Michael Seri.

    Jean Michael Seri.

    JACK WILSHERE

    This one’s out of left field, the wildcard in the mix no doubt. Jack Wilshere‘s injury woes are well documented but at his best, he can deliver at the highest level.

    In fact, Barcelona have already seen the Englishman in his element, but that was a while ago. Back in 2011, he put in a phenomenal display against an all-conquering Barca team as Arsenal secured a 2-1 victory.

    He returned to fitness midway through this season and began get back to his best for a couple of months, only to be struck down by injury again.

    However, even though it feels like he’s been around forever, Wilshere is only 26 years old. He’s available on a free transfer this summer and may be worth a gamble.

    Barcelona aren’t averse to taking a punt on an injury-plagued player, Wilshere’s former Arsenal team-mate Thomas Vermaelen a case in point.

    Jack Wilshere

    Jack Wilshere

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