Arsenal star responds to exit talk as four-way transfer battle heats up

Lucas Torreira has revealed that he may consider his future at Arsenal, as reports claim the midfielder could return to Italy.

Torreira has had mixed fortunes since joining Arsenal from Sampdoria in 2018. The Uruguayan only started 17 Premier League games this season, in comparison to 24 the year before.

Due to injury, Torreira only managed two appearances after the re-start in June. And with Mikel Arteta preparing for his first summer transfer window in charge, Torreira is someone whose future could be called into question.

The 24-year-old remains under contract until 2023. However, reports have emerged linking him with a return to Serie A.

And Torreira has responded by saying he wants to play for a club where he feels “important”, even though he will “respect” his contract.

“I have to think thoroughly about my future. I have a contract with Arsenal and I have to respect it,” Torreira told Sport 890 in Uruguay.

“Obviously, if I were to leave, I would do it for the best possible destination. We have to be calm and wait.

“Last season I played continuously, this one less so.

“This year has been more complicated: I have lost continuity and confidence. I do not like this. At this age I need to play to be called up for the national team.

“Transfer rumours? I don’t know anything right now. I need to rest because it was a very long season, I got injured, then there was the coronavirus.

“I have a contract with Arsenal, but if I have to change in the future it will be a decision I make for my own good.

“Every player looks for a team where he feels important. We will see what happens in the future.”

 

MILAN VYING WITH FIORENTINA FOR TORREIRA

Reports earlier on Friday suggested that Torreira’s future could be back in Italy. The ex-Pescara and Sampdoria man spent his entire professional career in the country before joining Arsenal.

According to Gazzetta Dello Sport, Fiorentina are winning the race for Torreira. However, Atletico Madrid and Torino are also in the running – and, intriguingly, the latter have since appointed Torreira’s old Sampdoria boss Marco Giampaolo as their new head coach.

Another option for the midfielder would be to move to Milan. According to The Telegraph, who go against the claims in Italy, AC Milan are in pole position.

Back in May, Torreira’s agent admitted the player would be open to returning to Italy.