Arsenal are still interested in signing Marcos Leonardo, and they might try to sign the Benfica star in the summer for a reasonable price.
According to TBR, Arsenal are keeping close tabs on Benfica star Marcos Leonardo ahead of the summer. The Gunners held an interest in January, as they could now revive their chase and make an approach for the 21-year-old Brazilian striker. However, they might want to avoid paying a considerable sum.
Arsenal reignite Marcos Leonardo’s pursuit
Arsenal and many other clubs were cautious about spending anything during the January window due to PSR concerns. They might have wanted one or two additions, with talk of signing a new striker rife around that period. Marcos Leonardo was on their list of potential targets, but unfortunately, they did not make any move despite the 21-year-old Brazilian striker being readily available after Santos’ relegation.
Arsenal are open to reigniting their pursuit of the striker, who has since joined Benfica and has been in impressive form. The Gunners had been thinking about a bid for the centre-forward who Edu Gaspar knows and likes for his team, although now that he has already made his move to Europe, the price might have gone up a staggering notch.
Benfica are known for their negotiation skills, and in the past, they have made short sales for big money, with the transfer of Enzo Fernandez to Chelsea standing out in that regard. The Gunners have the means to make a decent enough offer, but the Portuguese side might have a significant release clause in the 21-year-old Brazilian striker’s contract.
As things stand, the media’s narrative about Arsenal’s striker requirement has changed drastically. For a long time, they were linked with marquee names like Alexander Isak and Ivan Toney. Still, the emergence of Kai Havertz in that position has probably changed Mikel Arteta’s mind about recruiting a sure starter, as he may now prioritise a young striker with immense potential.
Arsenal have other striker targets
Arsenal may retain an interest in Leonardo, but they have other targets to consider if they cannot convince Benfica to sell them the Brazilian for a reasonable price. In fact, the former Santos man is not their priority target, with Benjamin Sesko now their main focus ahead of the summer.
There are conflicting reports about Sesko’s release clause. The original information suggests it’s around £43 million, while a recent report points towards a potential fee of over £60 million. Other targets include Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres, while there are mild links to some other names as well.
