Manuel Locatelli will prefer to remain at Juventus, thus dealing a blow to Arsenal’s hopes, who were keen on signing him.
According to Fichajes, Manuel Locatelli might decide on remaining with Juventus for the foreseeable future. The decision may come as a blow to Arsenal, who remain interested in signing the 24-year-old Italian international.
Manuel Locatelli was a high-profile target for Arsenal in the summer of 2021. While the north Londoners put their best foot forward, Juventus eventually won the chase. The 24-year-old Italian international was understandably keen on joining the Serie A giants over the Gunners.
But after a decent first campaign, there is trouble brewing in Turin with Locatelli. The 24-year-old Italian international has not cemented a permanent place in Massimiliano Allegri’s team. He has only played around 549 minutes in eight domestic games, which has raised questions about his future.
Earlier reports indicated Allegri might not trust the midfielder completely. The manager’s preference for other players has cast doubts over his long-term future. Meanwhile, Arsenal have been reportedly waiting in the wings, as they retain an interest in Locatelli.
The Gunners fell awkwardly short of signing Douglas Luiz on deadline day but could go back for the Brazilian in January. But the Aston Villa midfielder is still a secondary choice. If a player like Locatelli becomes available, the 24-year-old Italian international will be a priority for Arsenal.
With the Gunners likely to pursue a move for a new midfielder in January one way or another, the final acquisition may not be Locatelli. The 24-year-old Italian international has reportedly decided against leaving Juventus anytime soon. Arsenal were looking to crack a deal and were willing to include players in part-exchange.
That may be a huge blow for Arsenal and Mikel Arteta, who might have gotten excited about the prospect of signing Locatelli. The report suggests the player would prefer to fight for his place and remain in Serie A for the foreseeable future.
Arsenal were hoping to approach Juventus after the 2022 FIFA World Cup but now may end up looking for alternatives. One way or another, the Gunners will likely make a move for a new midfielder in January.
