Arsenal are closing in on the signing of Juventus midfielder Arthur Melo, with a deal now believed to be close for his loan arrival.
That’s according to Goal Italy, who claim that Arsenal have accelerated their pursuit of Arthur in the hope of a deal.
It’s suggested that the formula Arsenal are proposing is a loan until the end of the season with the Gunners paying his wages in full.
Juventus would be happy with that deal, but there’s just one catch.
Juventus won’t allow Arthur to complete his move to Arsenal until they secure a replacement for the Brazilian.
An enquiry has gone in for Lyon star Bruno Guimaraes, another player who has been linked with Arsenal.
The huge price tag is a concern though, meaning that Arsenal face something of a waiting game in their pursuit of Arthur.
Still, it seems that a rough deal is in place for Arthur to join Arsenal, just as Edu wants.
The Express reported on Tuesday that Edu is particularly keen on luring Arthur to Arsenal.
Edu knows his Brazilian players, bringing Gabriel Martinelli, David Luiz and Willian to the club whilst raiding Flamengo for Pablo Mari.
Arthur is now the latest target, with Arsenal absolutely desperate for a midfield addition.
Mohamed Elneny and Thomas Partey are away at the Africa Cup of Nations whilst Ainsley Maitland-Niles has bizarrely been loaned out to Roma.
That has left Arsenal woefully short in the middle of the park, and Arthur would help solve the problems.
Signed for £66million in 2020, Arthur was picked out as a star with Gremio and started well at Barcelona.
Arthur hasn’t quite got back on track at Juve, and has started just three Serie A games this season.
Still only 25 and with great ability as a playmaker on the ball, Arthur would bolster Mikel Arteta’s options whilst potentially opening up a long-term move.
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