Arsenal set to complete signing of Barcelona youngster Julio Pleguezuelo Selva

Arsenal hope to complete the signing of Barcelona starlet Julio Pleguezuelo Selva at the end of the season – even though it will anger the Catalan club.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has a rich habit of poaching top talents from Barcelona in recent years, with the likes of Jon Toral, Hector Bellerin and even Cesc Fabregas all heading to north London from the Spanish club.

But despite a long-running feud developing, Arsenal have moved in again this time for exciting central defender Selva.

The youngster, who has been compared to Carles Puyol, is seen as a top talent and is in demand across Europe with Manchester United also keen.

Barcelona are desperate to keep the player, but under Spanish law they are unable to offer him a contract until next year, allowing the big guns to swoop.

As well as the bonus of securing this transfer, Arsenal could also be in line for a betting bonus come the end of the season.

Arsenal are hopeful the transfer will be completed shortly, with a £200,000 compensation fee set to change hands.