At the end of July, it was said that Arsenal had submitted a bid for Chelsea target Cesare Casadei as they aimed to lure him away from Inter Milan.
Unfortunately for the Gunners, it was rejected, and Chelsea also saw two offers rebuffed as well.
Now, however, there has been a definitive update in this transfer saga, and it isn’t good news for Arsenal.
What’s the story?
Well, earlier today, Chelsea announced the signing of Casadei in a deal worth £12m – the Blues could also end up paying £4m in add-ons.
The 19-year-old has signed a six-year contract at Stamford Bridge, in what is a real show of faith from Todd Boehly.
It sees Chelsea continue their newly adopted policy of signing the best youngsters from around Europe, following deals for Gabriel Slonina, Carney Chukwuemeka, Zak Sturge, Eddie Beach and Omari Hutchinson.
Casadei attracted interest from Arsenal after an outstanding season in the Primavera 1 – Italy’s Under-19 division.
The Italy Under-19 international scored 14 goals in 30 appearances from midfield, while also providing four assists.
Arsenal have alternatives after Chelsea announce Casadei
It is not known whether Mikel Arteta wanted Casadei as an option for the first-team, or whether the Spaniard planned to loan the Italian out.
Given his tendency to field outstanding prospects, we believe Arteta wanted to use the teenager.
Nevertheless, Arsenal could still bolster their midfield department before the August 31st deadline.
A deal for Youri Tielemans remains very possible, with one source claiming that Arsenal are planning a late bid to sign the Leicester No.8 ahead of the deadline.
It comes after Arsenal fans chanted “Youri Tielemans, he wants to move here” during last Saturday’s 4-2 win over the Foxes at the Emirates Stadium.
Keep an eye on that situation, as we believe the Belgian will join the north Londoners this summer.
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