The Shkodran Mustafi to Arsenal rumour has been a mini-saga, with conflicting claims all over the place, but things appeared to take a very concrete step forward on Friday.
The Valencia media reported that Peter Lim, Valencia’s owner, flew via private jet to London for the express reason of transfer talks.
Lim’s aim was to speak with Arsenal directly, which would help cut out any confusion from over the past week. Whilst the English media were being told a deal was close, and bids made, in Valencia the stance was that Arsenal hadn’t submitted an offer.
With Lim and Arsenal face to face, that can all be swept aside.
However, Deporte Valenciano follow up the story on Saturday, and they say Lim isn’t keen on selling Mustafi. He knows Arsenal want him, and a sale isn’t ruled out, but the club are expecting a ‘significant amount’ for the German international.
What the significant amount is, Deporte Valenciano don’t reveal, but unless it’s met they don’t think Lim would agree a sale. This isn’t them dismissing the transfer, or even playing down the chances, just saying the money has to be right.
