Brazil’s Arthur Melo May Join Arsenal January

Posted by African Examiner Latest Headlines, Sports News Thursday, January 13th, 2022

(AFRICAN EXAMINER) – Arsenal are pushing to sign Juventus midfielder Arthur Melo on loan, reputed journalist Fabrizio Romano claims.

The Gunners are searching for a new central midfielder as they are short of options in the department.

Thomas Partey and Mohamed Elneny are away on international duty while Ainsley Maitland-Niles has left on loan.

Granit Xhaka is still uncertain after testing positive for Covid-19. Albert Sambi Lokonga remains the only senior choice.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta has openly stated that the club will pursue a new midfielder. Arthur seems the prime target.

The Brazil international could arrive on loan this month, but the Bianconeri need to find a replacement first.

Arthur returned after a leg surgery in September this year, but he has since been out-of-favour under Massimiliano Allegri.

The midfielder has made just three Serie A starts, and he was only a 79th-minute substitute in the Italian Super Cup yesterday.

He is open to joining the Gunners this month, but a deal could drag for several days with the Bianconeri wanting a replacement.

The 25-year-old is not a tough tackler or someone with a strong aerial presence. However, he is excellent with the ball at his feet.

The Brazilian was an instrumental player at Barcelona where he was hailed for his work rate and sublime distribution.

He has not replicated that in Turin amid injuries and competition for places, but may prosper with a fresh challenge away.

Meanwhile, the Gunners are not keen on paying the transfer fee for Lyon’s Bruno Guimaraes, who is valued at £37.5 million.

This could suggest that they are planning to spend big on a striker. The club are reportedly determined to land Dusan Vlahovic.

AFP

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