Arsenal are linked with Alexis Duarte and the Cerro Portena defender has confirmed that Mikel Arteta wants to bring him to the Premier League, speaking to ABC.
Though Ben White and Gabriel Magalhaes have formed an impressive partnership at the heart of Arsenal’s backline this season – with Rob Holding’s goalscoring performance away at West Ham United on Sunday a reminder of his own qualities at both ends of the pitch – some added depth is required if The Gunners are to make their mark on the European stage next term.
According to Paraguayan publication Cronica, Arsenal sent scouts to watch 22-year-old Duarte and Julio Enciso during Cerro Portena’s recent clash with Libertad.
The £3 million-rated Duarte is reportedly keen on a move to Arsenal. Understandably so, given that swapping Paraguay for the Premier League would represent a giant step forwards in his career.
Arsenal want Alexis Duarte
And, in conversation with ABC, the right-footed centre-back admits that there is truth to reports suggesting that Arsenal have made their interest known, though he remains fully focused on helping Cerro Portena overhaul Libertad at the top of the table.
“The truth is that I am more focused on the cup and the domestic tournament (than a summer transfer),” Duarte says when discussing Arsenal’s interest.
“I still haven’t thought about anything else. Let’s see if something happens later.”
Duarte, while talking about his style of play, describes himself as an aggressive, forward-thinking defender. One who likes to stick the proverbial boot in and turn defence into attack.
“It’s something I like, anticipating (the play) and being able to go on the attack,” he adds, detailing a style that could fit in well at a forward-thinking Arsenal side.
Arsenal could sell Pablo Mari this summer with the former Manchester City youngster confirming his desire to stay in Serie A. Mari is currently impressing on loan at Udinese.
Newcastle United were linked with Cedric last week.
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