TBR View: Arsenal could relive 2011 nightmare if they fail to sign midfielder to replace Xhaka
AS Roma are waiting for Arsenal to buy a midfielder before they complete a move for Granit Xhaka, according to Gianluca Di Marzio.
The Gunners have reportedly made Wolves ace Ruben Neves their top target, with Manuel Locatelli eyeing a move to Juventus. A move for Neves has been touted since the start of June.
Meanwhile, Arsenal had been targeting Locatelli, however, he’s ‘ignoring‘ the interest. It is thought the Sassuolo midfielder is keen on playing for a Champions League club, especially the Old Lady.
Xhaka has been in talks over a move to the Stadio Olimpico since May. The Switzerland captain is keen on playing under Jose Mourinho.
Roy Keane once labelled Xhaka ‘outstanding‘.
Delay causes issues
The longer Arsenal delay a move for a midfielder, the longer Xhaka unsettles the dressing room.
That’s because, the longer the club struggle to sign a replacement, the longer the 28-year-old stays.
It has been clear for over a month that the ace wants to leave the Emirates Stadium this summer.
The danger is if a move drags on until the end of the transfer window. It would disturb Arsenal’s preparations and the start of the new season.
Almost everyone in the dressing room will be well aware that a move lies in wait for the central midfielder.
Despite being heavily linked with a move to Manchester City, the Frenchman started for the Gunners against Liverpool. Nasri put in a dysfunctional performance as the Gunners lost 2-0 to the Reds. And just four days later, he completed his move to the Citizens.
A similar situation occurred with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. This time the England international started against the very club he ended up joining. Things didn’t go too well as Arsene Wenger’s men got battered 4-0.
History has sent Arsenal warning signs about what can happen if they delay sales. Signing a replacement for Xhaka and selling the ace is crucial business for the club.
