Arsenal and Tottenham are tracking €30m-rated Real Betis defender Aissa Mandi.
El Desmarque says Unai Emery's Arsenal want to sign him on a permanent deal at the end of the season.
He is under contract in Spain until 2021 and the Gunners would have to activate his €30m release clause.
It is understood that Emery wants two full-backs, two wingers and at least one centre back this summer.
But he will only have £40m to spend if his team do not secure a Champions League spot.
Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino is also keen to bolster his defence as Toby Alderweireld's future at the club hangs in the balance.