Arsenal have made a €30 million offer to Benfica for Brazilian striker Marcos Leonardo, although a decision has yet to be made.
Fichajes insists Arsenal are interested in Marcos Leonardo and have made an offer worth €30 million plus Bonuses ahead of the summer. The Gunners are looking for a new attacker, and could test B enfica with such a proposal, although the Portuguese side are in no rush to accept anything that comes their way.
Arsenal make a €30 million offer for Marcos Leonardo.
Marcos Leonardo significantly impacted Santos but, unfortunately, could not prevent the Brazilian side from relegation. Benfica took their chance and signed the striker for a fee close to 18 million, and at this stage, there were plenty of Premier League clubs keen, including Arsenal.
The Gunners may have had FFP trouble spending any money in January, although they have kept sight of the Brazilian striker even at Benfica. The Gunners have reportedly offered Leonardo €30 million plus bonuses, and they are expecting an answer from the Portuguese side.
Leonardo has instantly impacted Benfica, scoring four times in seven league appearances since his move from Santos. The Portuguese side are not overly keen to determine the striker’s immediate future but is aware of the growing interest from elsewhere, including Manchester United.
Manchester United also considered a move in January when summer arrival Rasmus Hojlund continued to misfire in the Premier League. Things changed for the Danish striker, who could see the Red Devils cool their interest and pave the way for Arsenal to make their move for Leonardo.
Benfica to delay response; Arsenal have alternatives
Benfica may wait until the end of the season to see where Leonardo stands with his performance before deciding his future. A move to Arsenal will tempt Manchester United’s target, but he will also consider staying with the Portuguese side to find his foot in Europe.
Arsenal have other targets in mind and may not consider Leonardo their absolute priority. Sporting CP star Viktor Gyokeres remains a target, while they have also considered Bayern’s Mathys Tel as an option. Mikel Arteta will bring one top-draw centre-forward; although their €30 million-plus Bonus offer could hit, they might not want to pay huge sums for the new striker.
