Champions League football hinges on Arsenal’s pursuit of Barella

Arsenal risk missing out on Cagliari starlet Nicolo Barella if they fail to secure Champions League football next season, claims The Daily Mirror.

Chelsea were heavily linked with a move for Barella in January after selling Cesc Fabregas to Monaco.

Maurizio Sarri appears to have cooled his interest in the Italy international for now and Arsenal have entered the race for the Cagliari starlet.

Arsenal boss Unai Emery has made bolstering his midfield options a priority this summer when Aaron Ramsey joins Juventus on a free transfer.

Barella has been earmarked as a top transfer target by the Gunners but can count themselves out of the race for his signature if they do not qualify for the Champions League next season.

The 22-year-old has established himself as first choice for Italy and looks destined to secure a big money move at the end of the season.

Only three players have been fouled more times than Barella in Serie A this season (67) and only three players have completed more tackles than the Cagliari midfielder (76).