Lucas Torreira’s agent held talks with Fiorentina last week as the Arsenal midfielder closes in on a permanent departure from the Premier League giants, speaking to Sport890.
At this stage, it would probably be a stretch even to call Torreira’s impending Arsenal exit one of Europe’s worst kept secrets. In fact, it’s pretty much common knowledge at this stage. A saga played out in public for all to see.
Torreira, who made his name at Udinese before joining Arsenal for £26 million after the Russia World Cup, has already agreed a four-year deal with La Viola.
Furthermore, Fiorentina have the option to turn Torreira’s short-term deal into a permanent transfer to the tune of £13 million.
Is Lucas Torreira leaving Arsenal?
“My agent met the Fiorentina bosses last week,” explains the diminutive defensive midfielder. “I am very happy in Florence because I feel the trust of the club and the manager (Vincenzo Italiano).
“Today, my contract belongs to Arsenal and I have to evaluate many things. But I am very happy here.”
After falling out of favour at the Emirates – and following a forgettable stint on loan with Atletico Madrid – Torreira has been a man reborn in Florence. His winning goal in Sunday’s 1-0 victory over Bologna was his third in 24 Serie A matches this season.
Arsenal had hoped to use Torreira as a makeweight in a deal that would see Dusan Vlahovic leave Fiorentina for North London. Arguably the most coveted striker in European football turned down the Gunners in favour of Juventus, however, a decision which left the London giants feeling ‘angry’ and disappointed, according to Torreira’s agent Pablo Bentancur.
Torreira may be replaced at Arsenal by Aston Villa wonderkid Carney Chukwuemeka.
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