Arsenal received a huge transfer boost in their pursuit of AS Lyon ace, Corentin Tolisso, as Serie A giants Juventus have reportedly pulled out of the race to land the French international. The midfielder has been phenomenal this season for the club both on the domestic and European platform, garnering a lot of interest from sides across Europe.
The North-London side is expected to have an eventful transfer season this time after a long frustrating spell was finally broken by the two late signings of Shkodran Mustafi and Lucas Perez. Arsenal had already lost their opening day game against Liverpool by then that left the fans fuming.
Many had predicted this season to be a disastrous one for the club and despite starting it quite well, Wenger couldn’t keep the side in the top four. Numerous processions, chants and banners have been exhibited forcing him to leave the club at the end of the season, when his contract ends. But, if he still chooses to remain at the helm, he is going to have to do good business this time, and fast.
Arsenal have a large void in their midfield despite bringing in Granit Xhaka last summer. While the Swiss international did pretty well in his debut season, it was the others who put the manager down. The likes of Jack Wilshere and Francis Coquelin aren’t expected to be at the Emirates next season, and Wenger needs someone to hold the midfield with urgency, which is where Tolisso could be handy.
A central midfielder by nature, he is more defensive minded, who can read the game perfectly. He can also play as a right-back and has a knack for scoring goals. The 22-year-old has been included in the Europa League squad of the season as he scored two goals and an assist in eight appearances, helping Lyon to the semi-finals. In all competitions, he has managed 14 goals and seven assists.
Arsenal will be having stiff competition from Inter Milan in landing the youngster but the lure of the Premier League might prove too much for the player. Another brilliant example of Lyon’s famed academy, Tolisso is labelled in the region of £34 million to £52 million. It was enough to waive off interest from smaller clubs.
Juventus, who could easily afford the sum, has however decided not to pursue him anymore. Arsenal remain a prime suitor because after falling behind Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester City and even Liverpool, the Gunners are surely expected to go all out in the transfer window.
