As we approach the FA Cup semi-final, there’s plenty of news involving Arsenal- including an update on Theo Walcott’s contract situation, two Serie A stars targeted and shock interest in a Manchester United misfit.
Arsenal Prepare £11m Bid For Juventus Defender (Football Italia)
Arsenal are set to launch an £11m bid for Juventus defender Daniele Rugani, according to reports in Italy. The 20-year-old has spent the season on-loan at Empoli and has impressed with his performances. However, due to the strength of the current defenders in Turin, first team chances for Rugani are set to be limited.
The Italy U21 star would be an ideal purchase for Arsenal, who need to strengthen their defensive ranks. Whilst they already boast Per Mertesacker, Laurent Koscielny and Gabriel Paulista amongst their current crop of centre-backs, a young arrival like Rugani would be great for now and in the future.
Rugani may find opportunities limited at the Emirates but his chances of first-team football was rise with his development, giving him a great standing for the future.
Walcott To Open Contract Talks With Arsenal (Telegraph)
Theo Walcott is ready to open discussions with Arsenal regarding a new contract in the next two weeks, amid reports linking him with a move to Premier League rivals Liverpool. The England winger has been focused on his football recently, denying talks had begun- contrary to what Arsene Wenger previously said.
However the relationship between Walcott and the Gunners is still strong- and Wenger is keen to keep his longest serving player in North London. Walcott has not yet lodged any demands, whilst Arsenal haven’t yet put an offer on the table.
Arsenal’s form in recent months has left Walcott struggling for first-team opportunities but he could be a crucial part of the squad between now and the end of the season, with an FA Cup semi-final and top-of-the-table clash against Chelsea in sight.
A new deal for Walcott would be good for Arsenal as he has already proved his worth to the club and allowing him to move to a rival opposition would come back to haunt the Gunners- just look at Danny Welbeck for evidence.
Arsenal To Fight Liverpool For Roma Star Iturbe (Daily Express)
Arsenal and Liverpool are set to go head-to-head this summer for Roma striker Juan Iturbe, who is rated at around £22m. The 22-year-old has been in Rome for less than a year but has struggled to make an impact at the Stadio Olimpico.
However, reports suggest that Premier League elite clubs are still interested in the player, whilst suggesting that Liverpool and Arsenal see the player as a potential replacement for Theo Walcott and Raheem Sterling respectively.
An Arsenal move for Iturbe would be a shock, as there are better players available for the price stated. With players like Marco Reus and Ezequiel Lavezzi potentially on the market, a move for an unproven player like Iturbe for £22m would be a big surprise.
Arsenal Eye Shock Cleverley Deal (Sky Sports)
The most ridiculous claims of the day come from one of the most reputable news sources, who state that Arsenal are planning to beat rivals Tottenham Hotspur to the signature of Tom Cleverley. The England midfielder, currently on-loan at Aston Villa, is set to leave Manchester United this summer.
Beating Spurs to a player is the only reason Arsenal can be interested in Cleverley, as there is no way he can force his way into our talented midfield. In terms of midfielder’s you wouldn’t want Arsenal to sign, it’s fair to say Cleverley is near the top of that list.
Make of these reports as you will- I’m just amused at them but also slightly scared in case there is legs on the story.