Arsenal have placed a bid for Sassuolo’s highly-rated midfielder Manuel Locatelli, as reported by Sky Sports. The Gunners have made a “concrete offer” for the 23-year-old who has emerged as one of Euro 2020’s top performers.
The North London club are yet to announce any new arrivals this summer, but the signing of Locatelli would be a statement of intent. However, Mikel Arteta’s side will not be the only club trying their luck for the Italian international. Juventus have also registered their interest in Locatelli as they try to regain their domestic dominance for years to come.
Arsenal Place Bid for Manuel Locatelli
Arsenal Hope to Make Manuel Locatelli Their First Summer Signing
Heading into Euro 2020, Locatelli was somewhat of an unknown entity from an international perspective. He played 34 times for Sassuolo last season, guiding his side into an eight-placed finish.
Possessing elegance in possession and tenacity when pressing, the 23-year-old has seamlessly slotted into Italy’s midfield. The Azzurri have been impressive in the competition so far and it is fair to say that Locatelli has played a starring role.
His season for the over-achieving Sassuolo and Italy in Euro 2020 thus far, have now caught the attention of Arsenal. Granit Xhaka is edging closer to his exit and Dani Ceballos is not likely to return after a less than impressive season, so recruiting a midfielder has moved up Mikel Arteta’s priority list.
As well as Locatelli, Arsenal have been monitoring the situations of Brighton & Hove Albion’s Ben White and Benfica’s Nuno Tavares, but are yet to strike a deal.
Juventus Amongst Other European Clubs Are Also Interested
Juventus are also hoping to lure Locatelli their way. Massimiliano Allegri is hoping to rectify last year’s comparatively poor fourth-place finish during his first season back in charge.
Speaking to Sky in Italy, Sassuolo Sporting Director, Giovanni Carnevali, confirmed the emerging battle for the club’s star: “Juventus are the only Italian club we talked to about Locatelli.
“There is interest from their side, we haven’t explored all the terms and evaluations, but we have an excellent relationship with Juventus so we will continue these talks.
“It’s true that other clubs from abroad are interested. Arsenal are one of these and they are ahead of everyone else because they tabled the only concrete offer we have received so far.”
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