Arsenal have already ‘opened contact’ for signing – ‘Immediate farewell’ is not ruled out by club and player

Arsenal have made a move to sign AS Roma’s Nicolò Zaniolo in the winter market, as per La Repubblica, relayed by Forza Roma.

Mykhailo Mudryk was the priority target for the north London club, but Chelsea beat them to his signing by agreeing a €100m deal with Shakhtar Donetsk.

Arsenal’s failure to take Mudryk has seen them look for a new target and they are also left with ‘avalanche of money’ to strengthen their attacking division.

This is where Zaniolo fits in as the report states Mikel Arteta has liked him for some time. It’s explained ‘contacts have already been opened’, without making it clear if it’s between Arsenal and the player or between the two clubs.

Zaniolo has a contract until 2024 and the chances of him signing a new deal are very low since the renewal negotiations have stalled. The two parties are aware they ‘cannot rule out an immediate farewell’ in the winter market.

Therefore, José Mourinho can lose the Italy international as early as January, especially with Arsenal making contact to sign him. The report states the player is valued between €30m and €40m.