Arsenal have this week been linked to a new player, Ignazio Abate of AC Milan. The right-back could be available on a cut-price deal due to his contract expiring in 2014 as he finds himself in a similar situation as Arsenal’s own Bacary Sagna.
Whilst Sagna’s immediate future appears to be at Arsenal, a move for Abate could change that the 26 year-old could be available for as little as £6million according to reports. Despite Sagna’s willingness to stay at the club, his form last season was questionable and if a player of Abate’s quality becomes available then the club and player could change their stance on the Frenchman’s club status. AC Milan are set to offer Abate a new deal. The defender is a product of their youth academy, but TalkSport suggest interest from the Premier League may make the right-back think twice before signing a new deal.
In terms of validity with this rumour, no big source has confirmed it. The reports seem to originate from TalkSport who claim the Italian is ‘keen on a move to the Premier League’. Manchester City have also been linked as Micah Richards and Maicon’s futures remain in the balance. What do we think? Nothing in it, for now.