Romano reiterates Arsenal will meet club’s asking price for 23-year-old, but want deal on one condition

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Fabrizio Romano has claimed on Twitter that while Arsenal are still prepared to pay £34.3 million for Manuel Locatelli, the Gunners only want signings this summer who are 100 percent convinced about joining the club.

Mikel Arteta’s men look to have put themselves in the running for one of the most exciting deals of the window.

Their main rivals for the Italy international’s signature are Juventus. Recent reports suggested that the Old Lady would prefer to take the 23-year-old on loan with an obligation to buy.

The problem for Arsenal however, is Locatelli apparently only wants a move to Turin.

And judging by Romano’s latest tweet on the race, that could be a deal breaker for Edu.

Romano has tweeted that Juventus have always led the race. He also stated that the Serie A giants are set to meet with Sassuolo soon to discuss the player.

He added that Arsenal remain willing to pay £34.3 million (€40 million). However, the Gunners only want players unequivocally convinced about joining…

Obviously, that could prove a problem. Locatelli’s sights are set on Juventus.

Arsenal should not shut door on Locatelli if he needs a little convincing following Romano update

Having said that, Arsenal will be aware of what they are up against. So the fact they remain in the race arguably says a lot.

Locatelli would be an outstanding signing for Arteta’s men. He was superb at Euro 2020 for Italy.

He can also play in a variety of midfield roles. And of course, he remains a young player. He does not turn 24 until next January.

Juventus dropping out of the race would surely help. If Locatelli is keen to leave, Arsenal may prove to be by far the best option.

And if he arrives feeling like he has a point to prove to Juve, that may not be a terrible thing for Arsenal.