Joelson ‘headed for the exit door’ for £18 million with Arsenal waiting in the wings

Joelson Fernandes is headed for the exit door and could leave Sporting Lisbon for £18 million with Arsenal waiting in the wings, according to Portuguese media outlet O Jogo. 

The 17 year old is the latest graduate of the famous Sporting academy that has produced the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Luis Figo, Nani and Ricardo Quaresma in the past. The attacker has been likened to Cristiano Ronaldo and big things are expected from him.

Sporting Lisbon have offered him a new deal but it was thought that an agreement between the player and club was not found due to disagreements over an attempt to substantially increase his release clause. It is understood that in addition to the disagreement over an increased buyout clause, there are many differences between the two parties and they seem to be escalating.

Arsenal reportedly sent an emissary to Lisbon recently and offered the Portuguese club between £13.5 and £18 million for Joelson. The Gunners are aware that the player is yet to sign a new contract and Sporting Lisbon will not want to retain a player at the risk of his value depreciating. The Portuguese side will look to sell the 17 year old if they are unable to tie him down to a new deal. 

The player and Sporting are scheduled to meet in the near future to peacefully resolve their differences. It is premature to rule out the possibility of Joelson Fernandes signing a contract extension with the Portuguese club.