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Walce returns to action months after injury blocked potential Arsenal move

Photo credit should read CLAUDIO REYES/AFP via Getty Images
Photo credit should read CLAUDIO REYES/AFP via Getty Images
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According to Globo Esporte, reported Arsenal target Walce has returned to action after a lengthy injury which prevented a potential move to the Emirates Stadium.

The Sao Paulo defender was linked with the Gunners back in January.

Sao Paulo sporting director Alexandre Passaro told ESPN how he spoke to Arsenal’s Edu over a potential deal for Walce before he was hit with a cruel injury.

Photo by Miguel Schincariol/Getty Images

The Brazil U23 ace was dealt a freak cruciate ligament blow in international training.

Walce was subsequently cut from the Brazil Olympic squad ahead of Tokyo.

Arsenal ended up bringing in Mari on loan. The Copa Libertadores winner performed well prior to the suspension, showing excellent agility and passing range.

But the Gunners must look at strengthening the defence further this summer.

David Luiz and Sokratis are both in their thirties. Calum Chambers and Rob Holding, meanwhile, are yet to convince while Shkodran Mustafi is out of favour.

Globo Esporte claim Arsenal were scouting Walce prior to his injury. But, the Premier League club faced competition from Red Bull owned Bragantino.

Bragantino offered around £6 million, but Sao Paulo weren’t satisfied with the terms.

Arsenal have the opportunity to return for the player. However, the defender could be a greater gamble now with cruciate injuries often taking away both pace and power.

David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images