Arsenal are keeping a close watch on Gremio star Bitello.
According to Radio Guaiba (h/t Potal Do Gremista), Premier League giants Arsenal are keeping tabs on Gremio midfielder Bitello in the ongoing summer transfer window.
The 23-year-old made his first team bow for FC Cascavel before moving to Gremio. He has made 83 appearances for the Rei de Copas, scoring 16 goals and assisting seven more.
A midfielder who can fulfill a variety of roles, Bitello can do a proper job not just in central midfield but also out wide on the right. This versatility is a welcome addition for the Gunners who lacked enough depth to push Manchester City all the way last season.
Gremio hold 70% of the player’s rights and will not consider any offer below €10 million for his services. It represents a snip in today’s market, especially given that Bitello could prove to be a diamond in the rough. Should the Gunners draw the best out of him, they might as well be landing themselves a steal.
AS Monaco are also interested in the player and could challenge for his signature. Gremio are not averse to selling the 23-year-old given their financial situation but will not be held hostage as far as the financials are concerned.
Arsenal can do with a reliable backup for Buyako Saka on the right-hand side of the attack. With Arsenal also set to play in the UEFA Champions League next season, Arteta cannot afford to play his best XI week in, week out. The lack of a reliable alternative for Saka on the right is a significant weakness that needs to be addressed.
The Gunners already spent a mammoth sum on Kai Havertz, Declan Rice, and Jurrien Timber. The trio far from makes up for all their deficiencies and it is imperative that the north Londoners need to make a few more additions that fit within their financial constraints.
The Gunners have kept a close eye on the South American market in recent years, landing themselves Gabriel Martinelli among others. Surely, given the price quoted, it is well worth the risk to take a punt on Bitello this summer.
