Arsenal are monitoring Brazilian wonderkid but journalist denies bid
By Ivan Buss
Arsenal have no shortage of Brazilians in their squad, and they now have their eyes on yet another young Brazilian talent from Gremio.
Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Magalhaes, Marquinhos – all Arsenal players, and all from Brazil. While Martinelli and Marquinhos were the only two that Arsenal got directly from Brazil, it’s no secret that all clubs have scouts crawling all over Brazil to search for players of immense talent and potential.
Now, Arsenal are reportedly interested in Gremio star Bitello, who has impressed in Brazil’s top flight and has drawn interest from a host of top European clubs. Having already spent in excess of £200 million, Arsenal are weighing up a move for yet another signing as they try and close the gap on Manchester City.
The transfer guru himself, Fabrizio Romano, has confirmed interest from the club side, and while some reports have Arsenal close to securing the transfer, Romano himself has stated, “…I’m not sure things are as advanced as others have suggested.”
Since progressing from the team’s academy, Bitello has already made 50 appearances in the top flight in just 18 months. Bitello is a midfielder, either a ten or an eight primarily, who has continued on his good form from last season that saw him score eight goals. This season, he has scored three goals in 14 games so far this season, and Arsenal and their scouts have taken notice. Whether or not this interest materializes remains to be seen, as Arsenal’s midfield has already seen a lot of change so far this season with the additions of both Declan Rice and Jurien Timber.
At 6 feet tall, Bitello also offers a physical presence that is appreciated and borderline necessary for a successful time in the Premier League. Of course, there have been exceptions to that rule, but Bitello’s size, as well as his versatility, could prove a deciding factor on whether or not the Gunners decide to open talks and eventually close a deal, a deal that would reportedly cost around £6.8 million.