CalcioMercato report that Juventus and Arsenal are set to meet to discuss a loan deal for midfielder Arthur in the next 48 hours. The Gunners are looking to sign him on loan, without a permanent option for the Brazilian.
The 25-year-old has been used sparingly by Max Allegri since the Juve gaffer returned to replace Andrea Pirlo. Indeed, in the 18 months he has now spent in Turin – he has only clocked up 45 games in all competitions.
The Gunners desperately need a midfielder. Mo Elneny and Thomas Partey are at the African Cup of Nations, while Granit Xhaka received a red card last time out. Ainsley Maitland-Niles has joined Roma on loan.
Of course, Elneny is also out of contract in the summer and could be sold this month to save Arsenal losing him on a free. So, a loan deal for Arthur makes sense. But Juventus are looking to keep the Brazil international.
They feel he still offers them something. But the new report states that Arsenal and Juve will meet in the next 48 hours, with Arsenal looking for a dry loan – full wages paid. There is a confidence the deal will go through.
Arthur to Arsenal: Much-needed signing: Crucial days for Gunners
Bringing in Arthur is a necessity, now. Arsenal are lacking in midfield and the decision to let Maitland-Niles go before bringing in a replacement has been criticised. Obviously, Xhaka’s red has not helped matters.
Arsenal need to get the next few days right, and the meeting to go well. They might have to come to a compromise, a sizeable loan fee – or even a permanent clause that could promise Juventus a big sum in the summer.
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