SPORT reports that Arsenal, Aston Villa, and Liverpool are competing for the services of the FC Porto midfielder. Nico Gonzalez. The midfielder holds a release clause of €60 million in his contract. However, if Porto sells the player, Barcelona will also earn profits given that they hold a 40% sell-on clause after selling their player to Porto.
Nico Gonzalez has been a revelation for FC Porto
The player developed himself through the Barca academy in La Masia. He was an excellent talent back in his days at La Masia but did not get the time to shine for the first team for Barcelona. However, he finally got his footing right when he moved to Porto from Barca in July 2023.
Gonzalez has been a regular and an incredible player for Porto in the middle and has already played more than 50 matches for Porto. He has also registered eight goals and seven assists in his tenure with the club so far. His performances have attracted the attention of Arsenal, Aston Villa, and Liverpool.
Nico has good physical traits and is excellent on the ball. He is incredible in short passing, has a high football IQ, and is also good in aerial duels. Gonzalez can play as a defensive midfielder and also as a creative midfielder. This versatility makes him an important asset.
The Gunners need to strengthen their midfielder and need replacements for Jorginho and Thomas Partey. Both these players are at the fag end of their careers and also in their final seven months of contract. Hence, Mikel Arteta’s side are looking for younger replacements. The 22-year-old is seen as a viable option for the North London club.
However, it is surprising why Aston Villa wants Nico Gonzalez. They signed Amadou Onana in the summer transfer window of 2024, and hence their interest in Nico Gonzalez is surprising, to say the least. Liverpool also want to strengthen their midfield options.
Ryan Gravenberch has been performing sensationally well for the Anfield side this season but their manager, Arne Slot, wants more options in the centre of the field. Whichever club wants to sign the player will need to trigger the €60 million release clause in his contract. Barca are also set to benefit from it, given that they have a 40% sell-on clause in the contract. It remains to be seen where he finally moves to.
Where will Gonzalez finally move to?
In my opinion, Gonzalez should move to Arsenal given that his playing style will align with Mikel Arteta’s philosophy. Arsenal also needs player of his traits in the midfield region and his profile will greatly rejuvenate the midfield of the Gunners.
