Arsenal ‘wanted’ to sign South American – Club offered ‘double the money’ to beat competition

Arsenal, Manchester United and Barcelona ‘wanted’ to sign Federico Valverde before he moved to Real Madrid, according to AS.

The midfielder arrived in the Spanish capital from Peñarol and was initially included in Real Madrid’s B team.

The Uruguayan didn’t get regular opportunities at the Bernabéu until Zinedine Zidane returned in March 2019.

This campaign has been a ‘special season’ for the 21-year-old. It’s not only for sporting reasons, but also because he became a father and started his association with Wasserman, the agency which now represents the player.

Prior to joining Real Madrid, Valverde made his first team debut for Peñarol and had already become a star for Uruguay U17s. This drew attention from the Gunners, the Red Devils and the Catalan club.

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According to AS, Real Madrid paid €5m to acquire Valverde’s services and after having learnt about bids from other clubs, Los Blancos offered ‘double the money’.

There’s no mention if any of Arsenal, United or Barca tabled an offer for the South American. However, Peñarol vice president Rodolfo Catino admitted last November the north London club travelled to sign Valverde, but their offer was ‘very low’.

Valverde has been a regular in Real Madrid’s starting lineup this season and they would now be delighted to have offered ‘double the money’ to beat the competition for his signing.