Arsenal are reportedly ready to begin talks to sign Fabio Vieira, who has a £27 million release clause, in the January transfer window.
According to a report by Portuguese publication Record, as relayed by Daily Mail, Fabio Vieira is the subject of interest from Arsenal over a move in the January transfer window. The 20-year-old has a £27 million release clause in his contract with FC Porto and is also being tailed by Marseille.
Fabio Vieira has been a part of the FC Porto setup for well over a decade and gradually grew within the youth department before breaking into the first-team squad towards the end of last season. Since then, the player has slowly grown in stature in Sergio Conceicao’s side.
Widely regarded as one of the most promising young midfielders in Portugal, Vieira has made 12 appearances across all competitions this term and scored his maiden goal for Porto in the UEFA Champions League. However, his future at Porto is mired in uncertainty, with just 18 months left on his current deal, and the situation has piqued the interest of Arsenal.
Arsenal are in dire need of players who can provide forward thrust from midfield, with technical director Edu recently admitting that the club needs to sign creative midfielders. To that end, the Gunners have been linked with a number of players that fit the bill.
Dominik Szoboszlai was reported to be on Arsenal’s radar for a long time, with his £22.5 million release clause making him an even more attractive prospect. However, the Hungarian midfielder is reportedly set to join RB Leipzig in the January transfer window.
Another long-term target, Houssem Aouar is being heavily linked with a move to PSG. As a result, Arsenal have had to set their sights elsewhere, with Vieira now being identified as a possible solution to their woes.
The 20-year-old possesses excellent vision and likes to control his team’s build-up play, meaning he could be just what Arsenal need. In addition, he also has the ability to find the back of the net from different ranges, thereby adding to his allure. And, as per Record (h/t Daily Mail), Arsenal are set to enter negotiations with his entourage over a possible January move.
Vieira’s delicate contract situation should keep his suitors, which also include Marseille, in good stead, with his £27 million release clause making him an even more appealing prospect. What now remains to be seen is if Arsenal do begin talks over a possible winter move or turn their attention towards some other midfielder.
