Arsenal managed to make two signings in January, landing defenders Pablo Mari and Cedric Soares on loan.
Mikel Arteta decided to take a close look at the pair before committing to long-term deals, but hasn’t been able to see much of them due to the global pandemic.
So what about Arsenal’s other January targets? They were linked with a number of players, including Bruno Guimaraes.
When Granit Xhaka was wanted by Hertha Berlin, Arsenal needed to think about a replacement. With Edu’s knowledge of Brazilian football, the Daily Mail claimed that Guimaraes had been picked out.
Globo Esporte claimed that the Gunners were ready to hold talks with Atletico Paranaense, in the hope of securing Guimaraes. All looked to be heading in the right direction, but then Xhaka stayed put.
Guimaraes was no longer a priority for Arsenal, and he instead joined Lyon. Whilst he has only made five appearances for the French side, he impressed quickly – and is again earning interest.
AS now claim that Barcelona want Guimaraes, just months after his move to France. They have allegedly contacted his representatives to try and set up a move for him should fellow Brazilian Arthur leave.
Lyon can already expect a considerable profit if Barcelona move for Guimaraes, as even just their name alone will build up the midfielder’s value.
After failing to land Guimaraes in January, Arsenal may now quickly see him move on for a huge profit whilst Mikel Arteta is left looking for another midfielder this summer; maybe the Gunners will live to rue not signing Guimaraes when they had the chance.
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