Arsenal midfielder Lucas Torreira is attracting interest from Valencia as the protracted move to Fiorentina is on the verge of falling through.
According to Tutto Mercato Web, forgotten Arsenal midfielder Lucas Torreira has emerged on the radar of Valencia, as the Spanish giants eye valuable signings in the summer transfer window. Incoming manager Gennaro Gattuso has admired the Uruguayan in the past and is reportedly keen on bringing him to Spain.
Lucas Torreira’s stars have not been shining bright enough for him as he struggles to find a permanent home to settle down. Since Mikel Arteta’s arrival at Arsenal, the Uruguayan midfielder has been away from the Emirates, having spent the last two seasons on loan elsewhere.
In Arteta’s first full season, Torreira joined Atletico Madrid in a deadline day loan move, as Arsenal signed Thomas Partey by paying his massive £45 million release clause. Under Diego Simeone, the midfielder was barely a part of the squad, although he played enough games to earn a La Liga winner’s medal at the end.
As he realised there was no future at Arsenal last summer, Torreira began proceedings to find a new club along with his agent. After initially reiterating his desire to join a South American side, the Uruguayan decided to return to Italy by joining Fiorentina on loan.
Torreira became an important player in Florence, making 31 league appearances, helping the club finish in the seventh spot ahead of Atalanta. Fiorentina were interested in signing him permanently as early as February, and the club were expected to trigger the €15 million buy option in his loan agreement.
Torreira even agreed to personal terms, taking a significant pay cut to help make the move permanent. However, some last-minute changes in plans saw Fiorentina attempt to renegotiate the fee with Arsenal initially and then pull out altogether from the agreement.
Torreira remains keen to join Fiorentina, although, under current circumstances, he may have to find a new club. This time, the move will have to be a permanent one as he enters the final year of his Arsenal contract. The Gunners were hoping to receive at least €15 million, but they might have to settle for less.
Valencia are reportedly interested in a move for the midfielder. New boss Gennaro Gattuso has admired Torreira in the past and could look to sign him at the Mestalla this summer. The Uruguayan may be comfortable with the former AC Milan boss’ style, making his potential integration rather comfortable.
Valencia have struggled with multiple issues on and off the pitch in recent years. One of their major concerns is club finances, with the La Liga side looking for cost-effective deals. A move for Torreira could be considered feasible with his experience in La Liga from his spell at Atletico Madrid seen as a relevant factor.
However, Arsenal’s demands could decide the outcome of this transfer story. Whether Torreira will fit in on his return to Spain is an altogether different question.