Arsenal could be off the mark in the transfer market with the news that they and Brazilian outfit Sau Paulo have reached a total agreement for the transfer of winger Marquinhos.
It is believed that the first piece of business to provide the frontline with extra cover and firepower is soon to be completed. With Nicolas Pepe still struggling to find a rhythm, ulterior plans are required to help Arsenal secure what they are most likely going to miss out on next season: Champions League football.
The deal in place and “agreed” upon is said to be a five-year contract and it will cost the Gunners £3.5m for the Brazilian. Reports further state that the player was pulled out of the matchday squad three days ago to help finalise the sale.
At 19 years of age, there is a lot of growth potential for Marquinhos who will be contracted to the London club until 2027. He has made 22 senior appearances, five of them being starts, for Sao Paulo’s first team and has provided one assist.
"Official statement soon. Marquinhos will leave São Paulo on a permanent deal to join Arsenal for €3.5m. #AFC Brazilian talented winger born in 2003 will sign five-year deal in the coming days.Arsenal have reached full agreement with São Paulo to sign Brazilian winger Marquinhos, born in 2003. Done deal, set to be signed – contract until June 2027. Fee will be around €3.5m guaranteed. #AFC …and Arsenal are also preparing their opening bid for Gabriel Jesus.(Via: @FabrizioRomano)"
Arsenal Are Working on a New Attacking Front
Besides Pepe not being up to Premier League standard since arriving, the loss of Alexandre Lacazette is imminent, the hole left by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang still needs filling, and the contract standoff between Eddie Nketiah and the club continues.
They need to bring in fresh faces, and said to be joining Marquinhos as the club’s soon-to-be new arrival is Gabriel Jesus. The Gunners are getting ready to submit their first bid for him as he is keen on an exit with the inevitable arrival of Erling Haaland at Manchester City happening.
Jesus’ form of late and throughout the season has made him hot property. In his 27 Premier League outings he has scored eight goals and assisted a further eight. The serial Premier League winner will be a welcomed addition and would slot right into the starting XI. He too will be familiar with Mikel Arteta from their days together at Man City.
It will be a good start to the summer if they can pull off both deals early. Being involved in the Europa League, the Arsenal will look to bring in another new name to the attacking line. They are rumoured to be in the race for free agent Paulo Dybala.
Worryingly for all Dybala contenders, Jose Mourinho’s charm at AS Roma could be too much for the player to resist, as they are believed to have taken the lead in the race for him.