Edu change of tack sees Spain star replace Aouar as top Arsenal target

Pau Torres, Gerard Moreno TEAMtalk

Arsenal are reportedly looking to beat Manchester United to the signing of Pau Torres when the transfer window opens in January.

The Gunners spent well in the delayed summer window. Thomas Partey arrived on deadline day, with the Ghanaian following the likes of Gabriel Magalhaes and Willian to the club.

Partey’s arrival has brought a lot of excitement to Arsenal. He’s been tipped as the ‘next Patrick Vieira’ by a Tottenham old boy. The former Atletico star also has big ambitions – and has revealed why his shirt carries the name ‘Thomas’.

The Gunners were also strongly linked with a move for Houssem Aouar this summer. He’s seen as a potential partner to Partey and someone who could add the creative edge missing from Arsenal’s midfield.

However, reports in Spain claim Arsenal will instead pursue a deal for Villarreal defender Torres in January.

Previous reports have claimed Torres is on Manchester United’s list of transfer targets, along with several other stars.

According to Todofichajes, however, Arsenal have been alerted by Villarreal’s apparent willingness to listen to offers.

While he has always been of interest to Arsenal, it’s reported technical director Edu is ready to make him their top target in January.

 

 

The Spanish outlet claims bidding for the player will start at €40m – a price that won’t put off the Gunners.

At 23, Torres has established himself as one of LaLiga’s best defenders. As such, a prolonged stay with the Yellow Submarine appears increasingly unlikely.

Edu hopes, it’s claimed, by moving early he can beat a host of rivals to Torres’ signature.

United, it’s claimed, will more likely instead pursue a deal for Dayot Upamecano. He can leave RB Leipzig if anyone meets his £52m release clause next summer.

 


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Aouar change of heart

The Gunners, however, do remain keen on Aouar. However, any move for him will likely now be shelved until the summer window.

Houssem Aouar

The France star ignored advances from Arsenal to stay at Lyon for the season. Given his strongly-worded statement, Arsenal believe trying to lure him away in January would prove futile.

“I am happy, this is my city and this my club,” Aouar told Telefoot while on international duty with France.

“I am proud to represent this club, I have so much motivation to make a great season.

“We made a choice, I’m happy to stay here. [Lyon president] Jean-Michel Aulas and [sporting director] Juninho convinced me to stay in Lyon.”

Asked if he was given a straight choice of signing for Arsenal or staying at Lyon, the midfielder had a diplomatic reply.

 

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