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Lucas Torreira is intent on an exit from Arsenal but the club has seemingly frustrated his plans to leave.
THE LOWDOWN: TORREIRA READY TO LEAVE ARSENAL
Uruguayan midfielder, Lucas Torreira, joined Arsenal in 2018 for €30 million from Sampdoria. He quickly became a fan favorite, with his most memorable performance coming in the North London derby against Tottenham. However, as the team struggled under Unai Emery, it affected the midfielder. Emery played him in advanced positions, which clearly didn’t favor him, leading to a drop in his performances.
The 26-year-old seemed like he returned to form with the arrival of Mikel Arteta. In the end, it was a false impression. As the season advanced, it became clear that he wasn’t in Arteta’s long-term plan. The combative midfielder also struggled to settle into life in London outside football, and all these factors saw him leave on loan to Atletico Madrid.
He returned to the Emirates after one season, going out on loan again to Fiorentina. His loan contract included a €15 million purchase clause, which the Italian club failed to activate despite his good performances.
Now back at the club, his jersey number (11) has been transferred to Gabi Martinelli. There are reports of a bid from Valencia, but there has been nothing official as at the time of writing.
THE LATEST: ARTETA DELAYS EXIT
Torreira’s agent, Pablo Bentancur, has confirmed to reporters that Mikel Arteta has insisted that the player be involved in Arsenal’s training for now. He was part of the squad that travelled with the Gunners for their pre-season tour in the United States of America.
Regardless, Torreira has reached an agreement with Gennaro Gattuso and Valencia to join the La Liga club, with the Uruguayan keen on completing the move.
Speaking with Sport 890, via Sky Sports, Bentacur said: “We have a pre-agreement with Gattuso for Torreira to play in Valencia.” It remains to be seen if Mikel Arteta will move to convince Torreira to remain at the club or grant his wish to leave.”
THE VERDICT: TORREIRA CAN LEAVE FOR THE RIGHT FEE
Lucas Torreira is a combative midfielder and quite decent on the ball. However, with the renewal of Mohamed El Neny’s contract at the end of last season, there are enough options to serve as back-up to Thomas Partey. Sambi Lokonga is also available, while Maitland-Niles’ future is yet to be sorted.
If Valencia offer the right fee, Mikel Arteta has to sell. Torreira has shown his willingness to leave and that might be the best option for all parties at this point
