CalcioMercato report that Arsenal are battling Mauricio Pochettino’s PSG to sign Lyon sensation Lucas Paqueta ahead of the summer. It comes after Newcastle United reportedly had a £33million bid rejected last December.
Paqueta, 24, has been in stunning form for Lyon this season – having a hand in 13 goals during his 30 appearances as an attacking midfielder. It is his speed of thought, footwork and overall flair that is attracting suitors.
Le 10 Sport claim that Newcastle made an offer worth £33million in December, ahead of the January window. But Lyon turned that down, with the Ligue 1 side looking to secure a much larger fee for the Brazil ace.
A player with 29 caps for his country, the interest in his services this summer is likely to be high. CM now claim that Arsenal and PSG want Paqueta, though it remains unclear how much Lyon want to let him go.
Arsenal and PSG eye Paqueta: Why Gunners should avoid Brazilian
There is no doubt that Paqueta is going to be a proper, proper player. His ability on the ball is second to none, arguably up there in the French league with his Brazil teammate Neymar. But do Arsenal need another no.10?
Paqueta is best in between the lines. Martin Odegaard, though, scored again on Sunday – showing incredible form at the moment. So much so, that it is keeping Emile Smith-Rowe on the bench. Arsenal do not need a no.10.
With the Gunners likely to spend big in the summer, finances could be somewhat limited. They need a striker, and another option in the middle of the park. It might cost them £100million, so another 10 is hardly a priority.
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