Arsenal have reportedly stepped up their pursuit of Andre Gomes, who looks set to depart from Barcelona this summer.
According to a report by The Independent, Unai Emery is eager to secure the services of Andre Gomes in the summer transfer window. Arsenal have been busy in the transfer market thus far, and are looking to continue their spending by bringing in the Portuguese from Barcelona.
Gomes has endured a torrid time since joining Barcelona from Valencia in the aftermath of the UEFA Euro 2016. The last two seasons though, have been nothing short of disastrous for the Portuguese, who has failed to command a regular place in the first-team setup at Camp Nou.
The 2017-18 season, in particular, was one to forget for Gomes, who managed a mere 10 starts across all competitions. And, it has been clear for quite some time that he will be on his way out of Barcelona soon. Tottenham have been the biggest club in pursuit of the 24-year-old. But, Arsenal now seem to be leading the race to sign him.
The Gunners do seem to be in need of a midfielder, with Jack Wilshere leaving his boyhood club this summer. Furthermore, the future of Aaron Ramsey is uncertain as well. With Mohamed Elneny only seen as a backup, and new Arsenal manager Unai Emery known to use a midfield trio, there is a need to sign midfielders.
Lucas Torreira looks to be one of the midfield reinforcements for the Gunners. But, Arsenal could do with more midfielders if Emery indeed deploys a midfield trio next season. While Gomes isn’t exactly an appealing target, the Barcelona midfielder could be a cost-effective signing whose driving runs from midfield could come in handy.
As far as the player himself is concerned, the move to Arsenal could allow him to resurrect a stuttering career and start afresh at a big European club. But, Barcelona will be commanding a £30 million price in exchange for the player’s services, which might prove to be a hurdle.
Arsenal are known to be operating on a limited budget this summer. After already spending over £30 million for their first three summer signings, it will be interesting to see if the Gunners are prepared to shell out Barcelona’s asking price, or look to drive a bargain.
What is certain is that Gomes’s stint at Barcelona will come to an end this summer, with his struggles at the club level also leading to omission from the national side. Whether Arsenal end up being his next club remains to be seen.
