Edu says many clubs interested in Torreira, will reassess Atletico loan spell based on player’s happiness

Arsenal technical director Edu Gaspar has said that there are a number of teams interested in Lucas Torreira, who is currently on a season-long loan at Atletico Madrid, and the Gunners will reassess the Uruguay international’s spell at Atletico Madrid based on the player’s happiness, according to Spanish media outlet AS.

Torreira has made just 13 appearances for the Rojiblancos this season and hasn’t started a game in La Liga since the end of October. He does not seem to feature very highly in Atletico manager Diego Simeone’s plans and this has raised questions about the player’s future at the Wanda Metropolitano stadium. 

The Spanish giants are understood to be keen on retaining the 24-year-old for the remainder of the season but Edu has made it clear that Torreira’s happiness is of paramount importance to the North London club as they consider what the best next step is. He said:

“The situation is very simple. Arsenal is concerned about Torreira, his happiness, that he plays and that he is well. We want to know about him how he feels and, later, of course, know what Atlético thinks. For us, Lucas and his happiness is what is more important. If everyone is happy, we will continue like this, if Lucas is not well, we will look for a change because there are many teams that are calling me to ask about the player’s situation.”

Valencia are understood to be very interested in signing Torreira. Their sporting director, Miguel Angel Corona, is believed to have already reached out to his counterpart at Arsenal to indicate the Spanish side’s interest in the player.

The Spanish side have prioritised the signing of a central midfielder in the January transfer window. Torreira is reportedly open to signing for Valencia on loan. In addition to Valencia, a number of Italian sides including Lazio, Fiorentina and Torino are interested in signing the Uruguayan midfielder.