Arsenal forward seals European move after contract is terminated
An Arsenal forward who flopped with the club has secured a permanent switch to a Serie A powerhouse after The Gunners terminated his contract by mutual consent.
Mikel Arteta’s side are in the midst of an overhaul as the Spaniard aims to get their Premier League trajectory back on course.
An underwhelming eighth place finish epitomised their league struggles last term. Though success in the FA Cup and recent Community Shield has given fans fresh optimism.
A number of key moves are expected to be completed in the coming weeks. The impending acquisition of Brazilian centre-half Gabriel Magalhaes is perhaps the most important.
But should Arteta wish to make further changes to his squad, exits will first be required.
One such departure has been finalised today, with Armenia international Henrikh Mkhitaryan sealing a move to Roma on a permanent deal.
The 31-year-old moved to North London as part of the swap deal that saw Alexis Sanchez join Man Utd. Both players’ destinies seemed to be intertwined, as both forwards struggled to make an impact with their new clubs.
Sanchez joined Serie A giants Inter Milan this summer after spending the year on loan at the San Siro. And in a remarkable coincidence, Mkhitaryan has walked the same path.
Mkhitaryan spent last season on loan in Rome and re-found his prior form, notching nine goals in 22 league appearances.
The former Gunner had one year remaining on his deal at The Emirates, but Arsenal chose to cut ties and simultaneously rid their books of his salary while allowing Mkhitaryan to make his next career step.
An official statement from Arsenal (via Sky Sports) thanked the forward for his contributions with the club, stating: “Everyone at Arsenal thanks Micki for his contribution to the club and wishes him all the best for his future with Roma.”
Two more set for exit to raise £67m
Arsenal are looking to raise £67m with the sale of two players in the next fortnight, according to a report.
The Times reports that Mikel Arteta is looking to trim down his squad imminently and midfield duo Lucas Torreira and Matteo Guendouzi will likely be two of those who are moved on.
The paper claim the Gunners have placed a value of £27m on the under-performing Torreira. While Guendouzi, who does not see eye to eye with Arteta, valued at £40m.
Torreira’s future in north London has been in doubt for some time, however the 24-year-old remains under contract until 2023.