AS Roma seem determined to sign Granit Xhaka from Arsenal in the summer transfer window.
The Italian club, now managed by former Tottenham Hotspur head coach Jose Mourinho, have reportedly already had an initial approach rebuffed.
And now, it seems that Roma are looking at including a player in the deal to sign Xhaka from Arsenal.
What is intriguing is that the player, Amadou Diawara, was on the radar of Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta last summer.
According to Corriere dello Sport (print edition, page 16, May 28, 2021), Roma could try to include Diawara in a deal to sign Xhaka.
The Serie A club are reportedly wiling to pay €15 million (£12.91 million) upfront plus bonuses as well as Diawara.
Could this be tempting to Arsenal?
Possibly.
After all, Xhaka himself reportedly wants to leave, and Arsenal were allegedly interested in Guinea international midfielder last summer.
Diawara’s agent, Daniele Piraino, told Tuttomercatoweb in August 2020, as translated by The London Evening Standard: “He is concentrated on his career. Diawara is at a top club like Roma, where he is happy, as there is enthusiasm around the new owners.
“However, he is also liked by many clubs in England, including Arsenal. Being linked with certain clubs is pleasing for him, as these are prestigious sides. Amadou is concentrated on football and his career.”
Diawara is a very good defensive midfielder and is only 23 years of age.
Xhaka is 28 and is at his peak, and the Switzerland international is not going to get any better.
Diawara could improve as a player in the coming years, but you would have to ask why Roma are so willing to get rid of him…
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