Arsenal have reportedly submitted an official bid to Sassuolo for Manuel Locatelli, with reports suggesting it to be the best financial package received for the midfielder so far.
According to Turkish journalist Ekrem Konur, Arsenal have made an official bid for Manuel Locatelli in the last few days. The offer represents the best financial package received by Sassuolo for the 23-year-old in this window; however, Juventus remain the favourites to sign the Italian international.
Arsenal are not giving up in their chase for Locatelli, despite the midfielder’s preference to stay in Italy and join Juventus. The Premier League side have made their intentions clear for the midfielder after reportedly launching a €40 million offer earlier. Sassuolo want more money and await Juventus’ official offer.
The Bianconeri have underbid for Locatelli, while Sassuolo seek more than €40 million for their star midfielder. The wait continues for Juventus to match their asking price, although Arsenal have reportedly come up with a new offer. Ekrem Konur suggests this offer has been the best financial package received by Sassuolo for the Italian international, who was recently a part of the triumphant UEFA Euro 2020 side.
Arsenal perfectly understand the situation, with Locatelli’s preference to join Juventus over any other team. The North Londoners are prepared to play the long waiting game and keep close tabs on Juventus and Sassuolo’s situation. If a deal fails between the Serie A clubs, Arsenal will be ready to pounce.
The Gunners are also reportedly negotiating with Wolves for Ruben Neves, but Locatelli presumably remains their top target. Alternatively, the new offer from Arsenal also indicates the delicate situation between Sassuolo and Juventus. The 23-year-old could also be considering a Premier League switch as an option if his desired move to Juventus falls through.
Konur also reports that with the UEFA Euro 2020 winner’s desire taking centre stage, Sassuolo sporting director Giovanni Rossi might be resigned to sell Locatelli to Juventus. Alternatively, the Serie A side could extract top value from the Bianconeri based on Arsenal’s offer.
It is also said that the Gunners’ technical director Edu will attempt to convince the player personally over a move to the Emirates. How much Arsenal’s overtures will convince Locatelli remains to be seen as he is hell-bent on sealing a move to Juventus to play in their midfield next season onwards.
As for Arsenal, they need to act fast in replacing outgoing star Granit Xhaka at the earliest. With the Premier League season starting in less than a month, Mikel Arteta still does not have a clear idea over his midfield pairing. If Locatelli signs, Arsenal fans can look forward to the coming campaign with renewed optimism.
