Arsenal make ‘concrete offer’ for Arthur Melo, willing to go beyond ‘dry loan’
Arsenal have made a ‘concrete offer’ for Juventus midfielder Arthur Melo, Gazzetta dello Sport (today’s edition, page 12) claims.
The Gunners are looking to sign a new midfielder this month, and Arthur has been identified as their prime transfer target.
They initially explored a ‘dry loan’ until the end of the campaign, but they have now made a better proposal to the Bianconeri.
An 18-month loan deal could be on the cards such that the Brazil international has time to acclimatise to the Premier League.
The Gunners have discussed the proposal with his agent Federico Pastorello, who has communicated the same to Juventus.
With Arthur eyeing a ‘medium-term experience’, a buy clause could be negotiated. The Bianconeri value him at €50 million.
Any deal this month would still depend on the Bianconeri landing a replacement.
Our view:
The Gunners are currently short in the central midfield department. Albert Sambi Lokonga is the only specialist option available.
Granit Xhaka was sent off in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final last week, and he will only return after the winter break.
The club were boosted by Thomas Partey’s early return from AFCON, but he received a red card against Liverpool tonight.
Hence, he won’t figure against Burnley this weekend. Martin Odegaard and Emile Smith Rowe will have to fill the void once more.
Despite this, a midfielder does not appear a necessity as Mohamed Elneny will also be available for the restart after the winter break.
The club are probably aiming to avoid another crisis. With the Covid threat still looming large, manager Mikel Arteta may want added depth for a top four push.
Arthur is far from a tough tackling midfielder while he has a genuine weakness when it comes to dealing with aerial duels, considering his height.
However, he is excellent with his distribution and ball carrying ability. He was superb at Barcelona, but has since had mixed fortunes with the Bianconeri.
A change of surrounding could bring the best out of him . An 18-month loan could be sufficient to judge whether he can cut in the Premier League.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
Read: Arsenal must trigger release clause to sign Alexander Isak.
