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Arsenal closing in on a deal to sign Gremio star Bitello
Arsenal are reportedly closing in on a deal to sign Gremio star Bitello in this transfer window, as per the Italian outlet TuttoMercatoWeb.
The Gunners have prioritised revamping their engine room this summer and have purchased Declan Rice for a record £105m deal from West Ham United after cashing-in on Granit Xhaka.
It has been suggested that Mikel Arteta is keen on signing another midfield option after Rice ahead of next season. Several players have been linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium over the last few months with Romeo Lavia being mentioned as the primary target.
However, Liverpool have accelerated their efforts to sign the Belgian and it appears the Gunners have decided not to push forward with this deal as they aren’t willing to match Southampton’s £50m valuation to purchase him.
So, the Gunners have opted to shift focus to alternative targets and have identified Bitello as a serious option. It has previously been reported that after being impressed by the Brazil international’s performances for Gremio in recent times, Edu Gasper decided to open direct talks with the South American club to purchase the midfielder.
Bitello to Arsenal
Now, according to the report by TuttoMercatoWeb, Arsenal are closing in on a deal to sign Bitello this summer and they will finalise this deal for a fee of around €8m[£7m] before next week.
The South American is a versatile midfielder as he can play anywhere across the middle of the park. He is quick, technically sound, can play threading passes between the lines and also can create chances for the attackers.
In addition, he has the ability to dribble past opposition defenders in tight areas, can finish off his chances and also works extremely hard without possession.
The 23-year-old is a highly talented player and could turn out to be an excellent signing for Arsenal with a view to the long-term future if they sign him this summer.
However, Bitello lacks experience of playing at the highest level so there is a question mark whether he is ready enough to move to the Emirates Stadium and help the North London club achieve success next term.
So, I think Arsenal need a more established midfielder to achieve their lofty ambitions next season, even if they sign the South American this summer.
It is going to be interesting to see whether Arsenal eventually opt to sign Bitello in this transfer window to strengthen their engine room.