‘I can’t wait’: £30m Arsenal target deals Arteta blow, amid reports of revived pursuit

Follow us on Google Discover

Sander Berge has told Sheffield United’s in-house media of his enthusiasm for the new season at Bramall Lane, in a potential blow for Arsenal in their hopes of a summer transfer.

Berge has exclaimed his eagerness to get going again after missing most of 2021 after a freak hamstring injury. Former Blades boss Chris Wilder detailed in December how the Norwegian’s tendon was pulled off the bone after he attempted a block in training.

The 23-year-old required surgery for the issue and would not return to the field until May for two games. But he would then miss the final three fixtures after picking up a slight niggle and the club deciding not to risk the midfielder.

Berge has now told Sheffield United’s in-house media that he cannot wait to get back on the pitch. But Arsenal could perceive his comments as a blow to their pursuit, as The Sun report Mikel Arteta’s side have revived their interest in Berge.

“I can’t wait,” Berge said. “Every day, I check the schedule and I want to get the shirt on. It seems like I’ve missed so many games now. I believe I will be very fit and good when I return out there again.”

The Sun also note Sheffield United are still demanding £30m to sell Berge, who is not Arsenal’s first-choice target. They have been reluctant to lower their valuation, despite falling out of the Premier League, and could easily retain him.

Berge deals Arsenal blow to pursuit of Sheffield United man

While Berge is not Arteta’s top target, Arsenal can perceive his comments as a blow to their summer pursuit. Sheffield United will be confident the midfielder is now staying at Bramall Lane and is committed to helping secure promotion.

The Gunners may have been banking on the 24-cap international angling for a move away to help their bid. Jeunes Footeux claimed in May that the Blades rejected the Emirates Stadium side’s €20m (£17m) offer, far from their valuation.

Reports by Calciomercato now also note Napoli are considering a pursuit after losing Diego Demme to a serious injury. So, Arsenal could face European competition and an asking price above their valuation if they want Berge. A player, it seems, is not desperate to join.