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Arsenal open talks to sign Man City star Joao Cancelo

By on August 18, 2023

Joao Cancelo

Arsenal have reportedly opened negotiations to sign Manchester City star Joao Cancelo in this transfer window, as per 90min.

After narrowly missing out on winning the Premier League title to the Citizens last term, the Gunners have decided to bolster the squad this summer to bridge the gap with Pep Guardiola’s side.

They have opted to reinforce their backline and have already purchased Jurrien Timber from Ajax Amsterdam in a £38m deal. But, unfortunately, he suffered a serious knee issue in the opening league fixture against Nottingham Forest and as a consequence of that, the Dutchman is now set to remain sidelined for an extensive period.

So, it has been reported that following Timber’s injury, Arsenal are planning to sign a new defender to replace the 22-year-old. Several players have been linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium in recent times with Aymeric Laporte, Timothy Castagne and Kyle Walker-Peters being among them. But, Cancelo is now emerging as a serious option.

The Gunners hold a long-term interest in the Portugal international as it was previously reported that Mikel Arteta was keen on acquiring his service this summer to bolster their fullback position.

Cancelo to Arsenal

However, after purchasing Timber, Arsenal seemingly decided to cool down their interest in Cancelo. But, it appears Arteta’s side have now reignited their interest in him to replace Timber.

According to the report by 90min, Arsenal have already opened initial talks with the player’s representatives ahead of a potential move. However, the report claims that purchasing Cancelo won’t be straightforward for Arsenal as Barcelona are also keen on acquiring his service and they have already agreed on personal terms with the player.

Man City are reportedly ready to cash-in on Cancelo – valued at around £43m by Transfermarkt – after the 29-year-old fell out with Guardiola last term. So, Arsenal can manage to secure his signature this summer if they formalise their interest.

But, it seems Barcelona are currently leading this race ahead of the Gunners and in addition, it has been suggested that Man City don’t want to sell any of their stars to Arsenal having already sold Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko last summer.

So, it is going to be interesting to see whether Arsenal can manage to purchase Cancelo if they opt to make a concrete approach this summer.

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