It seems that Arsenal interest in Rui Patrício is starting to be taken very seriously in Portugal.
Although Arsenal interest was first reported (this time around, at least) by French radio station RMC, the Lisbon newspapers quickly bought the story – and maybe the Lions did too.
A Bola newspaper has an article today claiming Sporting are preparing themselves to receive offers for their three captains.
Patrício is one of them, and it’s said that the approaches from Arsenal and Olympique Marseille could become real soon. That’s why the club could feel forced to buy a replacement.Patricio has a €45m release clause, and his real price is something the local newspapers disagree a lot about. Some say €20m should be enough, and others keep claiming that only something close to the €45m would take him from Sporting.
From our experience in covering Sporting’s transactions, we’d say the second opinion is right. Patrício is a very important player and won Euro 2016 as one of the big names in Portugal’s squad. Only a very good offer would convince the Lions to sell.
Sporting may well be awaiting an offer from Arsenal, but it would be a surprise if it arrives. Transfer stories relating to Portugal based players quickly get out of hand, and this could be more of the same.
