Arsenal transfer hopes on perilous pendulum as Juve swoop in with plan
Arsenal’s hopes of signing Sassuolo midfielder Manuel Locatelli could go either way, with Juventus also in the race, a report claims.
The Gunners are facing a crunch summer transfer window after a largely poor showing under Mikel Arteta. While their form solidified towards the end of the campaign, a woeful start cost them. Not only that, but £45million signing Thomas Partey will hope to have more of an impact next term.
Arsenal ended up finishing eighth last season and without European football to look forward to. Their appeal could take a hit for some transfer targets, while the club have lost out on finances.
Nevertheless, as with Partey’s arrival last October, midfield is again a priority for Arteta.
Reports claim that Arsenal have registered interest in Italy international Locatelli, who played 73 minutes of his country’s opening Euro 2020 win over Turkey on Friday.
Arsenal reportedly monitored his display alongside Borussia Dortmund and Paris Saint-Germain.
According to Gianluca di Marzio, though, Juventus are a contender in the transfer race. The Serie A giants believe he would be a welcome addition to their ranks next season.
However, they have made Bayern Munich’s Corentin Tolisso a back-up option in case they lose out on Locatelli.
Tolisso has only one year left on the deal he signed when moving to Germany from Lyon in 2017. Although, he will reportedly not be renewing and is looking for a new club.
For Bayern’s part, this summer subsequently represents the last chance to sell the France international for a fee.
Incoming and returning Juve boss Massimilano Allegri has actually held initial talks over the transfer. Tolisso is in fact a former target of Allegri’s, the Italian keen back in 2017.
Arsenal‘s transfer hopes could therefore go either way, depending on how Juve approach the situation. Manchester City have also had links with Locatelli.
Arsenal make centre-back bid
As well as midfield, defence is a key transfer priority for Arteta and Arsenal this summer.
David Luiz has left, meaning there is room for a new addition.
Anderlecht’s Albert Sambi Lokonga could be that man and the Gunners have submitted a lowball first offer.
READ MORE: Impressive Arsenal transfer still likely despite rejection of lowball first bid
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