According to Tuttosport, Arsenal are ready to offload Lucas Torreira. The midfielder has been linked with a move to Sampdoria, who are keen on bringing him back this summer. Torreira is not included in Mikel Arteta’s plans this season, and the Gunners have now reportedly slapped a €24 million price-tag as they look to get rid of their fringe players.
A Good Move For Lucas Torreira?
Lucas Torreira’s downfall at Arsenal pretty much began under the reign of Mikel Arteta. He has faced an identity crisis in the club’s midfield department even under the leadership of previous manager Unai Emery, who was unsure of whether to use him as a number six or a number eight.
The Uruguayan international faced a similar situation under Arteta. Granit Xhaka eclipsed him in the number six role while Dani Ceballos’ emergence during the backend of last season drastically reduced Torreira’s overall game-time. The midfielder was also dealt with some injury problems during the first phase of the restart period.
The ex-Sampdoria star could only muster 17 starts for Arsenal last season. Hence, a move away from Emirates could be a good option for Torreira this summer.
Good News For Mohamed Elneny
Torreira’s departure from Emirates could serve as a massive boost for Mohamed Elneny.
The Egyptian international is hoping to finally make his Arsenal breakthrough under Arteta this season, following a successful loan spell at Besiktas. He has already played a key role in the wins over Liverpool and Fulham, though there is no doubt that the Arsenal manager will look to have Dani Ceballos back at some point.
But should Torreira leave, it could help Elneny to become the prime alternative in central midfield, especially with Matteo Guendouzi facing an uncertain future at Emirates. These are exciting times ahead for the ex-Basel midfielder.
Easing Arsenal’s Pursuit Of Thomas Partey
Although whether or not Arsenal will be able to sell Torreira remains a question, there is no doubt that it could boost the club’s financial firepower, ultimately allowing them to pursue another star player in the market.
Thomas Partey, in particular, has been one of the players heavily linked with a move to Emirates. The Atletico Madrid midfielder could be an ideal upgrade over Xhaka in the number six slot, but his hefty €50 million price-tag is proving to be problematic for the Gunners.
That is where the potential €24 million sale of Torreira could come in handy. It should help Arsenal fund the move for Thomas, though the club may have to offload at least one more fringe player. The likes of Matteo Guendouzi, Alexandre Lacazette and Hector Bellerin could be potential candidates.
