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Premier League • England

Real Madrid slap £1bn price tag on ‘extraordinary’ Arsenal target as Arteta sees transfer plan foiled

Real Madrid players Karim Benzema and Eduardo Camavinga

Real Madrid are reportedly preparing a new contract for Eduardo Camavinga, who has been linked with a move to Arsenal in recent weeks. 

The France international has been an important player under Carlo Ancelotti this season, so it’s no surprise to see the Italian manager looking to secure his services long-term.

Camavinga’s current deal is valid until 2027, but given Arsenal’s interest, Madrid’s desire to cement his place at the Bernabeu is understandable.

According to reputed journalist Fabrizio Romano, Los Blancos are preparing a new contract proposal for the 20-year-old.

Camavinga is allegedly ‘aware’ of the growing interest from the Premier League but is ‘only interested in staying at Real Madrid.’

Romano claims that his salary will be improved, and the LaLiga champions are also keen to raise his release clause, which could be set as high as £1bn (£890m).

Camavinga has now made 89 appearances for Los Blancos since arriving from Rennes in August 2021 and is tipped to become one of the world’s best in the future.

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Arsenal out of Camavinga race

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta reportedly saw Camavinga as a potential successor to either Thomas Partey or Granit Xhaka, and tried to sign him on loan in the January window. 

A top quality player, Ancelotti recently hailed Camavinga’s versatility after an excellent performance against Celta Vigo on Saturday.

“He’s a player with extraordinary quality in all aspects: physical, technical and tactically, where he’s improving,” Ancelotti said.

“Eduardo can play in any position on the pitch. He could play as a central midfielder and in the number 10 role. He’s a special player with great attributes.”

Indeed, as well as in midfield, Camavinga has also featured as a left-back on occasion – filling in for Ferland Mendy and David Alaba.

The youngster also played a key role for France in the World Cup last year, making two appearances under Didier Deschamps as Les Bleus reached the final.

With that in mind, it’s clear to see why Arteta had Camavinga on his radar. However, it seems the Spaniard will now have to look elsewhere for midfield reinforcements.

For instance, Arsenal are now thought to be favourites to sign West Ham United captain Declan Rice, who could be available for £75m this summer.

While this is still a fairly hefty transfer fee, it’s significantly less than the £1bn the Gunners would have to pay to sign Camavinga this summer.

Martin Zubimendi, Mason Mount, Moises Caicedo and Ruben Neves are also potential options, so it will be interesting to see who Arsenal bring in.

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