Arsenal are considering making a move for Manchester City defender Joao Cancelo, according to new reports.
The Gunners were linked with a move for Cancelo earlier in the summer transfer window before eventually signing Jurrien Timber from Ajax. But the Dutch international picked up a knee injury during Saturday’s 2-1 win over Nottingham Forest, leading to some reports claiming that Mikel Arteta could return to the market to strengthen the his backline.
City center Aymeric Laporte is considered a potential target, although speculation is growing that the Spain international will move to Saudi Arabia. Now, Spanish outlet SPORTS Arsenal are reportedly back in the race to sign Cancelo, who has been hotly pursued by Barcelona in recent seasons.
It is claimed that the Gunners have confirmed their intentions to the 29-year-old, asking him to wait for them to make some sales, which probably include left-back Kieran Tierney. The La Liga champions are said to still be confident they can win the race for the versatile full-back, having already agreed personal terms with the player.
The club have yet to agree a fee with City but the Blaugrana could have an advantage over the North Londoners considering Mikel Arteta’s side are direct Premier League rivals to Pep Guardiola and Co. the Emirates last year but Arsenal have made huge strides since then, challenging the Citizens in the league title race last season.
According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, that makes an agreement between the two clubs highly unlikely at this time. “The knee injury for Jurrien Timber is a serious problem for Arsenal, so we have to see who can be in their list now,” said Romano, via Caught Offside.
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“We wish the best to Timber, we hope it’s not a long injury, but it’s an important one, so Arsenal will check the market. Earlier in the summer, Arsenal looked at bringing in a ‘traditional’ centre-back, more than a versatile player like Timber, who can play anywhere in defence.
“One player they appreciate is Aymeric Laporte – the rumors are true in the sense that Arsenal want him. But the problem is Manchester City does not want to sell another player to Arsenal, they prefer another destination for him, so we will see if Arsenal will return for Laporte or if they try to replace Timber of a full-back.
“Internal discussions will take place about that, with Mikel Arteta. The Gunners have had a very busy window, recruiting Timber, Declan Rice and Kai Havertz on a permanent basis, with David Raya on loan with purchase option.
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