Turning down Arsenal does not always work out the way players expect.
The Gunners are one of the most attractive clubs in world football right now, especially given their current standing under Mikel Arteta. That makes it surprising when players choose to go elsewhere.
One player who made that decision earlier this year was Atalanta midfielder Ederson, and things have taken an unexpected turn now.
Imagine you are Andrea Berta. Who is your top target for Arsenal in the summer transfer window?
Ederson’s decision to reject Arsenal for Atletico Madrid could backfire
Atalanta star Ederson was a target for both Arsenal and Newcastle United earlier this year.
The Brazilian has established himself as one of the best midfielders in Serie A, and he has been linked with a move to several big clubs over the last year.
Arsenal and Newcastle were said to be interested, but AS in Spain have revealed that he rejected a move to both clubs and agreed to join Atletico Madrid instead.
The report claims that an agreement was reached between Ederson and Diego Simeone’s side in February, and everything looked set for a summer move.
However, just a few months later, the situation has changed completely.
It has been revealed that the ‘signing is blocked’ because ‘something went wrong’ in recent days.
Atalanta remain keen to sell and want a deal completed before the summer window, with the midfielder valued at around £40 million.
However, there is no agreement between the player and Atleti anymore, and although he is still open to a move, the conversation is at an impasse.
Ederson is now stuck and may well be regretting his decision to snub the Premier League leaders.
🤔 Which midfield target should Andrea Berta prioritise at Arsenal this summer?
Arsenal should not return for Ederson
Even with this situation unfolding, Arsenal should not consider going back in for Ederson, who is clearly up for sale at Atalanta.
The Gunners should prioritise players who are fully committed and eager to join.
There are plenty of options available who would jump at the opportunity to sign for Arsenal right now.
That is why it does not make much sense to chase a player who rejected them.
Andrea Berta should instead focus on targets who truly want to be part of this project. That approach has worked well for Arsenal in recent years and should not change now.
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