Arsenal have included Juventus’ Manuel Locatelli in their target list for the summer window, according to claims from Italy.
The Serie A side took the midfielder from Sassuolo in 2021 and prior to that the Gunners showed keen interest in him. Sassuolo chairman Giovanni Carnevali revealed in March that Arsenal offered more money, but Locatelli wanted to join Juve.
Mikel Arteta wants to further bolster his side’s midfield next season and this could see the north London club consider returning for the 26-year-old, according to JuveLive.it.
Locatelli has managed a goal and six assists from 39 games this season. Even though he has featured regularly the report says the midfielder has struggled under Massimiliano Allegri.
There’s belief Locatelli would ‘finally blossom’ under Arteta and taking his qualities and performances into account he could be the ‘perfect link’ for Arsenal. In short the Arteta factor could play a role in convincing Locatelli to ‘make a leap’ to the Emirates.
His deal lasts until 2028 and JuveLive.it state Arsenal would find it difficult to negotiate a deal with the Old Lady. The situation may change if Locatelli could consider a move to the Premier League side.
