Arsenal could now get their hands on another transformative signing like Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko as a rumour emerges about Joao Cancelo.
The Portugal international – according to 90min – is a target for Mikel Arteta as his future at Manchester City remains uncertain.
If Arsenal do get their hands on Joao Cancelo this summer, it would be a significant move for a number of reasons.
What’s the story?
Well, the 28-year-old looks set to join a new side this summer after failing to impress at Bayern Munich.
Cancelo and Pep Guardiola fell out at the Etihad Stadium earlier this season, leading to the versatile technician moving to Germany on loan, where the Bavarians hold an option to buy him.
However – according to SPORT – Bayern Munich are unlikely to trigger their £61.6m purchase option, leaving Arsenal in a strong position to sign the Manchester City outcast.
So, what would make Cancelo’s arrival at the Emirates Stadium so special?
For a start, the two-time Premier League winner can play at left-back or right-back, as well as in the centre of midfield, which gives Arteta plenty of tactical flexibility.
The Spaniard was already given that flexibility when Zinchenko – a similarly versatile technician – arrived back in July, and Cancelo would add even greater quality to Arsenal’s squad.
Again like Jesus and Zinchenko, Cancelo would also bring a winning mindset to north London, which would benefit the younger players who lack experience of a title race.
Why Arsenal must be wary of Joao Cancelo
As talented as Cancelo is, Arteta must ensure his head is in the right place before he signs him for Arsenal.
The Guardian believe Guardiola loaned the defender out due to concerns over his attitude, as he wanted to play a greater role.
As Arsenal and Manchester City fans will tell you, football at the highest level is a squad game now, and rotation happens often.
Therefore, Cancelo cannot expect to play every single minute if he joins Arsenal, and Arteta must be careful about adding a potentially disruptive figure to his group.
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