Report: Arsenal now considering improved midfielder bid after agent talks

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Arsenal have been told by the agent of Juventus midfielder Arthur Melo that offering an 18-month loan with an option to buy is likely to be enough to convince the Old Lady to do a deal, according to a report from Tuttomercatoweb.

The Gunners are looking to bolster their midfield ranks this month. And it would appear that Arthur is one of their top targets in the middle of the park.

He has been involved in most of Juve’s games this season. However, the 25-year-old has not been able to break into the starting lineup on a consistent basis.

It had been reported that he was content with staying put this month. However, an intervention from Mikel Arteta had apparently convinced Arthur that he wanted to join Arsenal should he leave Juve.

Unfortunately, convincing the Serie A giants to let him go has been problematic. Nevertheless, Arsenal have continued to press ahead. And they apparently met with the player’s agent at London Colney this week.

And it appears that Arsenal are now aware of what it will take to find a breakthrough in their bid for Arthur.

Tuttomercatoweb reports that they have been told by the player’s agent that Juventus will likely accept an 18-month loan deal that includes an option to buy. Arsenal’s current bid is for six months with no option.

Juventus still want a replacement. And Arsenal are still mulling over whether to improve their offer.

Taking Arthur on 18-month loan could be an incredibly smart piece of business from Arsenal

Clearly, Juventus want a deal that leaves the door open for a permanent move. And Arsenal may be wary of agreeing a loan until the end of next season.

However, a deal could make a lot of sense for the Gunners. They need more options in midfield. And Arthur is clearly a player with a lot of ability. Both Barcelona and Juventus have felt compelled to sign him previously.

An option to buy could be key for Arsenal in their pursuit of Arthur. A loan is much less of a gamble if there is no obligation to buy.

And actually, agreeing a potential future fee now could be a masterstroke if Arthur ends up finding his best form at Arsenal.