Arsenal are reportedly plotting a move for Corinthians’ Brazilian wonderkid Robert Renan, also a Chelsea target.
According to a report by Goal, Arsenal are monitoring the progress of Brazilian defender Robert Renan and could make him their next defensive signing. The Gunners have been flying high in the Premier League this season and are currently topping the table.
The North Londoners seem to be very fond of Brazilian players, and technical Director Edu’s influence can definitely be one of the reasons behind the club’s willingness to deal with Brazilians of late.
The Emirates recently saw the arrival of Gabriel Jesus from Manchester City. The other Gabriels – Gabriel and Gabriel Martinelli – have been a part of the Brazilian contingent at the club. And Martinelli is a pivotal figure for Arsenal, who want to tie him to a bumper new contract.
Renan has not really racked up the numbers in the Brazilian top flight but has already shown enough maturity and can be very dependable if given a consistent run in the team. Corinthians manager Vitor Pereira spoke very highly of the 19-year-old, and he knows it will be very hard to keep him at the club especially after he burst into the first team setup so early in his career.
Wolves scouted the defender and also held discussions with his entourage. But a deal could not be agreed upon this summer. A fee of £10 million was thought to be sufficient to lure the Brazilian centre-back. But the 19-year-old does have a pretty hefty release clause on his contract, and a £45 million fee should be enough to tempt the Brazilian club into selling their prized asset.
Arsenal are thin in the defensive department, and adding another centre-back might be worth taking the risk. William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes have been the preferred choice, while Ben White has done quite well in his new right-back role. But Chelsea are also ready to break the bank for the defender.
Todd Boehly is excited to restore the glory days in west London and could provide stiff competition to the Gunners. But Edu’s Brazilian contacts provide Arsenal with an edge. And should they finalise a deal for the 19-year-old, it could be a win-win situation for both the club and the player.
