Arsenal offered pick of two long-term targets to sweeten sale of key man
Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka remains firmly on the radar of Roma, who are willing to send two players in the opposite direction, according to the latest updates.
Xhaka has been at Arsenal since 2016, when he joined from Borussia Monchengladbach. He remains an important player despite splitting opinion among the fanbase. However, Arsenal’s resolve will be tested this summer as he is the top target for Jose Mourinho at Roma.
Mourinho spoke fondly of Xhaka when he was in charge of Arsenal’s north London rivals Tottenham. Now, he wants to prise the midfielder away from the capital.
Arsenal will therefore have a decision to make as they look to rebuild for next season. Xhaka won’t be the first name they had in mind to sell, but could be someone they consider parting ways with.
The problem is whether they can get the fee they want for him. It is believed they are asking for around €25m, but Roma are determined to land him for less. They have made a first offer of €13m.
One way to find a middle ground, according to Gazzetta Dello Sport, would be for the Italians to include players in the deal as well. And they have two that already appeal to Arsenal.
First is Amadou Diawara, who has been on Arsenal’s radar ever since he was at Bologna. The Guinea midfielder has since played for Napoli and Roma, showing glimpses of his potential but struggling for consistency.
A fresh start in the Premier League could be what he needs to fulfil what he is capable of. He is worth around €10m, and because he plays in the same position as Xhaka, could certainly help the two clubs come to an agreement.
Under also on offer
Second, Arsenal could take Cengiz Under after his underwhelming loan spell with Leicester City. It has been confirmed by Il Tempo that the Foxes won’t activate their option to buy, leaving the winger looking for a new club.
Gazzetta Dello Sport insist that Arsenal are still keen on the Turkey international despite his struggles with Leicester. They are looking for extra attacking options out wide and Under has delivered in the past.
Tuttomercatoweb claimed last week that Arsenal were prime suitors for Under, and Gazzetta confirm that. They also add that he could cost much less than expected – potentially just €5m or €6m – if used as a counterpart.
Before Arsenal can think of taking either Diawara or Under, they must wait to see what Mourinho’s plans are for the duo at Roma. Their new coach must decide their futures first, but if he is willing to work without them – and neither are considered key for the Giallorossi – then their destination could be the Emirates Stadium.
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