Arsenal are reportedly still ahead in the race to sign Manuel Locatelli as talks with Juventus didn’t go to plan.
According to CalcioMercato, the first meeting between the Old Lady and Sassuolo for the 23-year-old midfielder were ‘not successful’.
As per the report, Arsenal’s bid for Locatelli remains ‘a superior offer’.
Although Arsenal and Sassuolo can seemingly reach an agreement, it is an entirely different story for Locatelli.
Arsenal could struggle to sign Locatelli
It is no secret that the midfielder wants to join Juventus. The Serie A giants are also eager to sign the Euro 2020 winner this summer.
Massimiliano Allegri is a fan of the former AC Milan academy graduate. And Locatelli’s performances this summer for Italy have only cemented his status as one of Europe’s top midfield prospects.
Indeed, Arsenal face an uphill battle to persuade Locatelli to join.
Mikel Arteta’s side won’t be competing in Europe for the first time in 26 years, and the north London club’s regression in the Premier League since the departure of Arsene Wenger could be a turn off for the Italian midfielder.
Insider View:
Juventus failing to reach an agreement with Sassuolo for Locatelli might seem like a boost for Arsenal. But in reality, it is only dragging out a transfer battle where the Serie A giants will likely emerge as victors.
Arsenal could be an interesting project for Locatelli. After all, Arteta has proven himself to be one of a kind at convincing players, both youngsters and experienced heads, to sign for the club and to help him take the Gunners back to glory.
However, it appears that the Basque manager will be unable to convince Locatelli to join Arsenal this summer.
The midfielder seemingly has his heart set on Juventus. And with the Old Lady likely to challenge for the title as well as compete in Europe next season, the Gunners are all but out of the equation to sign the Euro 2020 winner.
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