Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain could battle it out for Vitoria Guimaraes midfielder Ibrahima Bamba in January.
According to Sport Witness via O Jogo, Paris Saint-Gemain is ready to rival Arsenal in the chase for Ibrahima Bamba. The 20-year-old midfielder is reportedly seeking a move away from Vitoria Guimaraes as he wants to progress his career at a bigger team.
Ibrahima Bamba has seen an exponential rise in stature after some impressive performances for Vitoria Guimaraes. After joining the Portuguese side earlier in the year, his displays had convinced the club to offer him a new contract, which he signed in October.
Bamba’s new deal will last until 2026, thus placing Vitoria Guimaraes in a strong position in the face of interest arriving for the player. The 20-year-old midfielder is considered one of the top prospects in his position and age, with several clubs keeping tabs on his situation.
The report insists Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal, Club Brugge and Atalanta are all keeping watch on the player. Bamba was recently called up by Roberto Mancini into the Italian set-up to train, and this has made the player think of a move away from Vitoria Guimaraes.
He wants to continue developing at a top club where his impact could have more relevance. The report focuses on the interest of the two biggest clubs, PSG and Arsenal. The north London side kept tabs on Bamba for quite some time as Mikel Arteta seeks a new defensive midfielder.
Per multiple reports, Palmeiras’ Danilo was their main target, but talk of a move has gone cold for several weeks now. It could be the case that Arsenal are seeking an alternative target to the Brazilian; hence, Bamba could become a possibility.
The 20-year-old midfielder plays a similar role to the Brazilian and could become a decent backup to Thomas Partey at Arsenal. There is a strong chance the Gunners would move for such a player, although they face competition from PSG.
PSG have recently remained active in the Portuguese market after making several high-profile signings. They are constantly monitoring the situation of several young talents in that country alongside others. The 20-year-old midfielder could become an interesting prospect for the future.
Vitoria Guimaraes are ready to negotiate a transfer, and while their demands are unknown, they may ask for around €30 million from suitors. PSG may find themselves in a good position to pay such prices, although there are doubts about Arsenal’s willingness to spend so much.
Bamba has an interesting future, as more clubs could enter the frame for his signature. The 20-year-old midfielder has the talent and promise for a bright future, something he could realise at a big club like Arsenal or PSG.
