Fabrizio Romano has reported that Arsenal defender Pablo Mari is set to leave the Gunners on loan – and join Udinese. A deal is “almost done”, and the Spain-born ace is expected to arrive in Italy in the next few days.
Mari, 28, has struggled with his fitness at Arsenal since joining the club initially on loan from Brazilian side Flamengo back in January 2020. In his two years at The Emirates, Mari has clocked up just 22 Arsenal outings.
The addition of Ben White in the summer has pushed Mari further down the pecking order – with Gabriel and Rob Holding likely to be above Mari. TuttoMercatoWeb claimed earlier this week that Villarreal wanted Mari.
However, Romano reports that Mari’s landing spot will in fact be Italy and not Spain. He is going to join Udinese, who currently sit 14th in Serie A. Romano says a deal is close, with only ‘final details’ to be completed.
Romano on Mari: Arsenal need to include permanent clause in loan
Unfortunately for Arsenal and for Mari, it is a move that has simply not worked out. The colossal defender needs to be playing regularly to develop some momentum and avoid injury – Arsenal are not going to give him that.
Mari showed glimpses of quality at Arsenal – but ultimately, he is in desperate need of a fresh start. The Gunners could really do, though, with including a permanent clause in order to bring in some cash for him.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
