Arsenal are reportedly keeping tabs on Nicolo Zaniolo, as his contract talks with AS Roma could hit a stumbling block.
According to Italian journalist Ciro Venerato, as quoted by Football News 24, the contractual situation of Nicolo Zaniolo as AS Roma might allow clubs to make their interest known. Arsenal are among the teams keeping tabs on the 23-year-old Italian international, and there could be other teams keen on his services.
Nicolo Zaniolo has seen his stock rise in the last few seasons, with the 23-year-old Italian international putting in some important displays for AS Roma. He has developed into a key player under Jose Mourinho, with the Giallorossi keen on retaining him on a new contract.
Roma want the player to extend his stay, but his conditions are proving tricky for the club to accept now. The report suggests Zaniolo wants a €4 million-a-year deal and a significant amount in bonuses. The Serie A giants are open to add-ons but are only willing to go up to €3.5 million in salary.
Moreover, Roma want to insert a €50 million release clause in Zaniolo’s contract. The 23-year-old Italian international might be open to the condition if Roma meet his financial requests. But there might be trouble brewing between the two parties if they cannot come to a fair conclusion over this renewal.
There is plenty of admiration around Zaniolo, as many top clubs have shown interest in the player. Arsenal are among his suitors, with the Gunners keeping tabs on the 23-year-old Italian international’s situation.
Arsenal are in the market for exciting players who can improve their squad. Mikel Arteta wants continuation in building a title-challenging squad. After a tremendous summer transfer window and their superb start to their season, the Gunners find themselves sitting on top of the table. On paper, they may not need a player of Zaniolo’s profile.
Arsenal already have Martin Odegaard and Fabio Vieira in the attacking midfield position. However, if a player of the 23-year-old Italian international’s quality becomes available, especially at a good price, they could be interested.
For now, there seems to be nothing concrete in the reported interest. Things could change in the coming months depending on how well the talks between Zaniolo and Roma progress. If Arsenal are serious, they could face plenty of competition from Premier League rivals, considering Tottenham showed interest in Zaniolo in the summer.
A non story