Arsenal transfer target ‘wants to join’ but ‘nothing imminent’ as talks being dragged out

Barcelona: Arthur Melo scores sensational goal in training

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Juventus midfielder Arthur Melo wants to join Arsenal before the end of the January transfer window, reports say. However, a move to the Emirates is not imminent due to discussions being held over the length of the deal. Arsenal want to add to their midfield resources but are finding it difficult to get a deal over the line.

Arsenal lost Thomas Partey and Mohamed Elneny to the Africa Cup of Nations earlier this month to restrict their options in the middle of the park.

Granit Xhaka is also currently suspended after being sent off in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final defeat to Liverpool.

That left Albert Sambi Lokonga as the only senior midfielder available to Mikel Arteta.

However, Partey has returned following Ghana’s shock exit at the group stage in Cameroon, although he himself was sent off upon his return on Thursday.

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Arsenal still want to sign Arthur despite Partey, Xhaka and potentially Elneny all being available for their next fixture after Sunday’s visit of Burnley.

Sky Sports reporter Kaveh Solhekol said on Friday that Arthur is keen on joining the Emirates club.

The player’s agent has been in London discussing a deal with Gunners chiefs.

However, a deal is yet to be struck with Juve.

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“The situation with Arthur is simple. Arsenal want to sign him, he wants to sign, Juventus are prepared to let him go,” Solhekol said on Sky Sports News.

“But it’s complicated too – the discussions are centred around how long any loan would be, whether there would be an option or obligation for Arsenal to buy.

“Arsenal also have some other targets, but the player’s agent has been in London this week for talks with them.

“So it is one which could happen, but nothing is imminent at the moment.”

Juve are also keen to sign a replacement for Arthur before letting him leave.

Manager Massimiliano Allegri was asked this week about the future of the Brazil star.

He claimed there will be no changes to his squad and that the 25-year-old will be staying put in Turin.

“This is our team and we’re not gonna change anything,” Allegri said.

“Arthur’s part of Brazil national team, he’s an important player.”

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