AC Milan have reportedly struck a deal with Renato Sanches to sign the Portuguese international this summer, with Arsenal also chasing the midfielder.
According to CalcioMercato, the Italian giants have agreed terms with the former Bayern Munich star over a move in the transfer window, with Milan now negotiating a deal with LOSC Lille for Sanches.
- Three players who could replace Fernandinho at Manchester City
- £166m superstar among best XI of under-23 free agents this summer
The 24-year-old has been on the radar for the European titans for some time, with Arsenal also in the race for Sanches, with Sport Mediaset reporting that the Gunners view the Ligue 1 star as a replacement for Granit Xhaka.
Whilst the £35m Swiss international has been sensational this season, a new central midfielder is a priority for Arsenal this summer, yet Sanches could now be off the table with Milan closing in on signing the talented maestro.
Hailed as a ‘wonderful’ talent by Rui Vitoria, Sanches would be a top signing for the north London side given his experience for the likes of Lille and Bayern as well as his qualities in the midfield,
At 24, Sanches also fits the profile for what age Arsenal are looking to sign players at, with the strategy working to a tee last summer, yet Milan now look to have won the race for the midfielder, much to the dismay of the north London side.
Arsenal will be kicking themselves if Sanches completes Milan transfer
There’s no denying that Xhaka has been sensational this season for Arsenal, yet with Sanches available, the Portuguese star would have been a smart replacement for the Swiss international given Arteta’s plan for the summer.
However, with Milan now storming ahead in the race to sign Sanches, Arsenal have seemingly missed their chance to sign the Lille star, with the Gunners having to turn to the drawing board yet again for a new midfield target.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
