£34m star could follow former Arsenal prodigy in shock exit after Smith Rowe update

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Arsenal looked unlikely to sanction major departures in this transfer window, but a surprise has now emerged as two clubs have enquired about Fabio Vieira.

The midfielder has been absent since November, when he was sent off against Burnley and subsequently banned for three games.

He then underwent surgery on a groin injury, and is still expected to be absent for the coming weeks.

This came after a bright start to the season, where he played a huge part in two goals in a stunning cameo during a 2-2 draw against Fulham, but the campaign has not panned out as he expected.

Emile Smith Rowe was recently linked with a loan move to West Ham, but it is clear that the club believe he is still an important part of the team, and this could spell bad news for Vieira’s Arsenal future.

French sides express interest in Arsenal star Fabio Vieira

A report from Football Transfers has now revealed that AS Monaco, and another unnamed French side, have made enquiries about a loan deal for Vieira.

The 23-year-old joined Arsenal for around £34m last year, but a combination of injuries, inconsistent form and tough competition in his position has limited his minutes.

He has shown flashes of talent, but is still yet to fully convince in an Arsenal shirt despite his talent, having arrived as an oustanding prospect from Porto.

Monaco signed former Hale End prodigy Folarin Balogun in the summer, and could be set to unite the pair should Vieira follow him to the South of France.

Arsenal face dilemma over Fabio Vieira

When he does return from injury, starts may not come easy for Vieira, with Arsenal still aiming to compete in the title race, whilst they will face his old club Porto in the Champions League.

If Smith Rowe is indeed set for more opportunities in midfield, whilst Thomas Partey has also returned from injury, then Vieira will fall further down the pecking order under Mikel Arteta.

Arsenal did face problems in midfield as Kai Havertz struggled to settle, and Vieira could have been an option earlier this season, but failed to grasp the opportunity before his injury.

A loan deal could make sense in that Vieira could find consistent game time and improve his form, but it would also weaken Arsenal’s depth, and if Arteta still considers Vieira part of his plans, an exit this week would be unlikely.