Arsenal have joined the race to sign LOSC Lille midfielder Renato Sanches, who is also courted by Liverpool and Real Madrid.
According to an exclusive report from 90 Min, Arsenal are ready to rival Liverpool in the pursuit of Renato Sanches. They have contacted LOSC Lille, exploring the possibility of a transfer and the potential price tag for the midfielder who is turning a few heads with his performances in Ligue 1 and, indeed, the ongoing European Championship.
After a failed stint at FC Bayern Munich, Sanches has admirably revived his career. He was one of Lille’s main protagonists in their fairytale-like campaign in Ligue 1 this past season that saw them beat Paris Saint-Germain to lift the French league title.
The midfielder has performed well in the UEFA Euro 2020 as well, making a sparkling impact after coming on as a substitute against Hungary. His breakthrough came against France, producing an exquisite display in the middle of the park after being given the nod ahead of Bruno Fernandes.
These performances have made him a subject of interest from Arsenal. There is no secret that the Gunners are keen to oversee a squad overhaul after a disappointing 2020/21 campaign.
One of the key target areas for Mikel Arteta is the number ten role. The club lacks a proper creator, especially after Martin Odegaard returned to Real Madrid following the end of his loan spell. Arsenal also missed out on the pursuit of top target Emiliano Buendia, who joined Aston Villa.
The Gunners have been linked with several other options since, with Renato Sanches emerging as the latest candidate. However, they are not alone in the race to sign the LOSC Lille playmaker, who is also courted by Liverpool.
The Reds are determined to find a proper replacement for Georginio Wijnaldum this summer. They have been linked with multiple options as well, including Borussia Monchengladbach starlet Florian Neuhaus.
Liverpool’s interest in Sanches bodes well for Lille, knowing the two Premier League clubs might be indulged in a potential bidding war. Reports also suggest that Real Madrid are keen on securing the services of the Portuguese international, with Carlo Ancelotti having previously worked with the player during their time together at Bayern Munich.
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It might make Los Blancos an appealing destination, especially with Luka Modric, Toni Kroos nearing the final phase of their respective careers. Arsenal, in contrast, might struggle in the pursuit of Sanches because of their failure to qualify for Europe, although the report does suggest that the player is keen on returning to the Premier League.
