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Arsenal launch formal offer to sign Marcos Leonardo

By Ritayan Chatterjee on March 8, 2024

Arsenal have reportedly submitted an official proposal to sign SL Benfica star Marcos Leonardo this summer, as per the Spanish outlet Fichajes.

After displaying promising performances during his time at Santos, the 20-year-old attracted a lot of attention from several big clubs around Europe ahead of the winter window. But, he eventually decided to join the Eagles.

Upon moving to Estadio Da Luz, the striker has enjoyed a promising start in the Portuguese top-flight, scoring four goals in seven appearances. So, it appears having been impressed by the Brazilian’s recent eye-catching performances, Arsenal have registered their interest in signing him.

According to the report by Fichajes, Arsenal feel Leonardo has huge potential so the Gunners are willing to secure the striker’s signature in the upcoming transfer window.

The report further claims that Arsenal have already started to accelerate their efforts to sign him and have launched a formal proposal worth around £26m. Fichajes states that Benfica will now evaluate the offer and decide whether to accept it or not.

Leonardo to Arsenal

The report says that Manchester United and AS Roma are also keen on securing the South American’s signature but Arsenal are currently well advanced in this deal.

Having recently joined Benfica, Leonardo still has more than five years left in his current contract. So, the Eagles are in no rush to cash-in on their star man.

The North London club are reportedly planning to reinforce their frontline by signing a new prolific goal-scorer. Ivan Toney and Victor Osimhen have been suggested as their primary targets but Leonardo is now emerging as a serious option.

The South American is a talented player and could be a shrewd signing for the Gunners with a view to the long-term future if they purchase him. However, the youngster doesn’t start regularly for Benfica yet so there is a doubt whether he is ready enough to help Arsenal achieve their lofty ambitions next season.

Therefore, Mikel Arteta’s side would be better off signing an experienced striker even if they purchase Leonardo this summer. However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the Emirates club eventually decide to sign the Benfica star to bolster their frontline.