According to Goal, Edu has spoken to Newcastle target Lucas Paqueta as he aims to bring the Brazilian to Arsenal.
What’s the story?
Well, Edu – Director of Football at the Emirates Stadium – has supposedly informed the attacking midfielder’s representatives that he plans to submit an offer this summer.
It comes after Newcastle also expressed a willingness to smash their club-record transfer fee to sign Paqueta.
However, Goal now claim that Lyon are demanding €80m (£68m) to sell their No.10 this summer.
Arsenal’s offer is expected to be less than the £68m wanted by Lyon, and the French club recognise that they are unlikely to receive that amount in full.
Interest in Paqueta comes after he enjoyed a stunning campaign last season, scoring 11 goals in 43 appearances while also providing seven assists.
His form earned him a nomination for the Ligue 1 Player of the Season award, something Lionel Messi and Neymar did not receive.
Paqueta did not win the award, although he was, however, voted Best Foreign Player in France with over 20,000 votes to his name.
Arsenal face Newcastle fight
In our view, Newcastle pose a huge threat to Arsenal in this transfer battle.
The Magpies have already signed one of Paqueta’s best friends in Bruno Guimaraes, who he remains in contact with, and even went to watch play against Southampton back in March.
It has even been said that the 24-year-old is thinking of joining his pal on Tyneside, as he loves the Newcastle fans, and seemingly wants to follow Guimaraes to the Premier League.
Of course, Arsenal can offer European football, and they also have a few Brazilians of their own who could help Paqueta settle in north London.
However, the most noise regarding Paqueta’s future has come from Newcastle, so be sure to keep an eye on this saga.
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