Arsenal, West Ham United interested in Wendel

Arsenal and West Ham United are reportedly interested in Zenit St Petersburg’s Wendel, as both clubs continue their search for a new midfielder.

According to Globo, Flamengo’s hopes of signing Zenit St Petersburg star Wendel may have diminished after Arsenal and West Ham United have shown an interest in the midfielder. The Brazilian star could depart the Russian side, and England could be his destination if the interest is as firm as the reports suggest.

Premier League clubs often find themselves embroiled in pointless rumours about player links, particularly the big sides. Arsenal’s need for a new midfielder remains well-documented, and in the last few months, so many players have seen their names connected with a move to the Emirates.

And the news regarding Zenit St Petersburg midfielder Wendel will have to be taken with a pinch of salt, as the Brazilian’s name pops out of nowhere. Wendel has been a reliable presence for Zenit since signing from Sporting CP in 2020. However, with the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, FIFA laid down many sanctions on Russian football.

FIFA rules allowed players to break free from their existing contracts. However, Wendel refused to exercise the right and continues to be employed by Zenit. His time at the club may be coming to an end though, as the midfielder is pencilled in for a move away. Flamengo had been keen and made an offer, reportedly rejected by Zenit.

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However, the Brazilian club’s chances could diminish as reports of Arsenal, West Ham and Everton’s interest in the midfielder emerge. The Gunners are searching for a new player in the position, but their requirement is for a more attack-minded operator.

One of their targets, Lucas Paqueta, wants to leave Lyon, while Arsenal remain undecided on making a bid for Youri Tielemans. In short, the Gunners have many other suitable targets on their radars, and the links to Wendel seem to be nothing but a rumour.

As for West Ham, after reports of Declan Rice’s decision to stay put emerged, the idea would be to bring in a player to add more depth in midfield. The Hammers have the England international and Tomas Soucek as their primary midfielders, and Wendel could be the quality backup option. West Ham are reportedly keen on the 24-year-old Brazilian, and a move from David Moyes’ side could make sense.

For now, the news on Wendel should be taken with a pinch of salt. However, with the transfer market proving its unpredictability over the years, surprising things could happen, including Wendel moving to the Premier League.