Arsenal and Manchester United have reportedly made contact with Gonzalo Higuain ahead of a potential £40million move for this summer.
The Gunners have been long term admirers of Higuain, one only has to cast their mind back to the summer of 2013, when it seemed Arsenal had all but signed the Argentinian before a deal fell through.
Now, Italian journalist Tancredi Palermi has claimed Arsenal and Manchester United have made contact for the striker. Arsenal fans should take this news with caution, after all it was the same journalist who once claimed a deal taking Higuain to Arsenal was complete.
After a transfer saga, the 27 year old eventually joined Napoli for £35million, and now they have reportedly placed a £40million price tag on their star asset.
But despite the questionable reliability of the latest rumours, Arsenal’s interest in Higuain could be genuine. Wenger recently admitted he wants to sign quality players, wherever they play. Higuain is clearly a player the manager likes, and it looks like he will be available this summer.
Despite scoring two goals, Higuain was unable to give his side the victory they needed on the final day of the season to secure Champions League football. He missed a penalty in the game too, but Lazio went on to defeat Napoli 4-2.
The lack of Champions League football coupled with Rafael Benitez’ imminent departure means Higuain is likely to push for a move away from Napoli this summer.
Arsenal will face strong competition from several other clubs if they do pursue a move for Higuain, with Manchester United also thought to be heavily interested. Louis van Gaal is on the lookout for another top class striker this summer, after passing up the chance to sign Falcao permanently.
I find it unlikely that Wenger would pay the £40million asking price though, especially after refusing to pay the £35million Madrid asked in 2013.
Arsenal are also keeping a close eye on developments in Madrid this summer. Wenger is keen to finally bring Karim Benzema to The Emirates. Madrid may be willing to sell the French striker if they opt to sign Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero this summer.
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