Just over a year ago, the City Football Group, who own Manchester City among others, bought Savinho from Atlético Mineiro, and it appears they beat Arsenal in the process.
The winger had been showing great potential in Brazil, which caught the eye of Mikel Arteta’s side and others, and was eventually signed by Troyes. He first had a loan at PSV, and is now spending a season with Girona.
It’s no secret the move gave him some hope he could join Manchester City in the future, and he clings to that.
Savinho has now spoken to DiarioSport and revealed he also had the option to join Arsenal.
The Catalan outlet today features an exclusive interview with him, and asking about the interest from the City Group, he was pressed if there were other clubs who made offers.
That’s when Arsenal got a mention: “Yes. Arsenal wanted me and also the Brazilian Bragantino.”
Savinho was then asked whether he was certain about making the move to Troyes, and admitted that he had the hope of a move to Manchester City in the future.
“Yes. I knew that Troyes was the City Group and I thought that by working I could one day reach Manchester City. Of course, I will have to do very well here in Girona.”
The winger, however, claimed he ‘never’ spoke to Pep Guardiola.
In his season with PSV, Savinho only made eight appearances, and had two assists. Now at Girona, he’s been getting more regular playing time, with one goal and two assists in five games.
Only time will tell if Manchester City will want him, but his start at Girona has been impressive and he’s already getting plaudits from the Spanish media.
