Juventus are reportedly refusing to sanction a move for Arthur Melo without finding a replacement while also seeking more assurances from Arsenal.
According to Tuttosport, Arsenal have been dealt a blow in their pursuit of Brazilian midfielder Arthur Melo due to a combination of reasons. For one, Juventus are seeking compensation clauses to be inserted into the deal while not allowing the 25-year-old to depart without finding a replacement.
Arsenal had singled out Arthur Melo as the player they would like to sign on loan in the ongoing transfer window. After getting the initial feeling a deal might be struck swiftly, their negotiations with Juventus have dragged on and made things more complicated than they were.
Arsenal have major problems in midfield as they are short on numbers in the department. Ainsley Maitland-Niles was allowed to join AS Roma on loan, while Thomas Partey and Mohamed Elneny are representing their nations at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Meanwhile, Granit Xhaka received a straight red card against Liverpool, which will see him miss the next few domestic games. That leaves Albert Sambi Lokonga as the club’s only recognised senior midfielder. Hence, Arsenal have sought an urgent signing, identifying Arthur as the ideal player to join their setup.
The 25-year-old Brazilian international has not had his struggles in Turin since his move from Barcelona. While his playing time has reduced considerably, the midfielder wants to be a part of Brazil’s squad at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar later this year. Without securing regular game-time, he risks being left out, which is why he is open to a temporary move away from Juventus.
With Arsenal’s interest in Arthur growing, Juventus wanted to have more assurance than what the Gunners have offered them. The Bianconeri initially wanted the north Londoners to include a purchase obligation clause in the deal, something Arsenal have been against. Meanwhile, the Serie A giants also asked for Partey in exchange, a proposition Arsenal are expected to refuse unconditionally.
Alternatively, Juventus are asking Arsenal to secure Arthur’s services in an 18-month loan deal instead of the six-month proposal that is on the table. Moreover, the Italian side wants to sign a replacement first before letting the Brazilian depart as they do not wish to have a shortage of options for the rest of the season. To that end, Frenkie de Jong is on their radar.
All those factors are casting doubts over a move for Arthur, and Arsenal could be forced to look at alternatives if the need arises. However, with Partey expected to be return after Ghana’s early elimination from the AFCON, it remains to be seen if the Gunners continue their pursuit of a new midfielder, specifically Arthur.
