Gazzetta di Modena journalist Stefano Aravecchia has told Calciomercato.it that Sassuolo have promised reported Arsenal transfer target Domenico Berardi he can leave this year.
But Aravecchia has dealt Mikel Arteta a blow, as the Italy forward is likely to again snub all moves abroad. Berardi has seldom shown interest in a career outside of Serie A amid prior curiosity in his services, and is set to favour staying in his home county with AC Milan keen.
The Rossoneri are set to meet the Neroverdi at the end of the season to discuss a deal for the 27-year-old. He has been in stunning form once again this term, striking home 12 times and assisting 14 goals. Berardi scored 17 and created eight last season in four more games.
Berardi’s 2020/21 efforts and a strong Euro 2020 drew interest from Arsenal in a potential transfer for the Sassuolo star. Gazzetta dello Sport reported the Gunners held talks over a deal, but refused to pay €50m (£42m). Fanta Calcio also cited fresh talks ahead of January.
And Berardi maintaining his sensational season has kept the 23-cap Sassuolo dynamo on Arsenal’s transfer shortlist, per Calciomercato. Although they may face competition from Leicester City, with the Foxes also interested in bringing the 2024 free agent to England.
Sassuolo give Domenico Berardi £25m transfer ‘promise’ amid Arsenal interest
Berardi has felt for the past year that his Sassuolo career has reach its end and that its time for a new challenge, with Arsenal, Leicester and AC Milan reportedly eager for his transfer.
The Emilia-Romagna hierarchy accept it is likely time to separate, as well, and have slashed their valuation from last year. Yet Aravecchia believes a move to England is still unlikely.
“He has often refused various destinations,” Aravecchia said. “Juve, a couple of times and always abroad. Since last year, the boy has believed he is ready. We need €30m (£25m). There is a promise that if a team arrives in June that offers them [that fee], he will leave.
“Milan are very, very interested. In Italy and in Europe, few have these numbers, it has top player numbers. Milan will sit at the table with Sassuolo. We can exclude abroad.”
Arsenal securing Champions League qualification this season could help Arteta to convince Berardi of a transfer from Sassuolo. The Gunners are in a box seat for a top UEFA berth in fourth in the Premier League. They will also still have games in hand after facing Liverpool.
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