Squawka report that Tottenham and Arsenal are set to go to transfer war as the two north London clubs face up in a battle for Galatasaray’s Portuguese winger Bruma. The 21-year-old joined the Turkish club in an £8.6 million deal three years ago but shot to prominence last season on loan at Real Sociedad in Spain, where he impressed and attracted the attention of scouts from across Europe. Now back at his parent club, he has continued his fine form by already having scored twice and provided three assists in his opening six games of the Super Lig season, beating his tally for assist from 32 games in Spain last season already.
The youngster has been likened to compatriot Cristiano Ronaldo in style for his lightening pace and strength on the left wing, though he can also interchange and play on the right wing, where he has had more success with two assists and one goal in two appearances on the right flank this season. Having came through the same youth system as the Balon D’Or winner, Bruma has all of the necessary attributes to go on to develop into a superb all round attacking player too.
Reportedly available for around £20 million, his club are trying to negotiate a new deal to include a release clause worth £22 million according to speculation, so there may be some urgency if either club is to make a move and declare their interest in the winger. He would undoubtedly suit both sides, with his style likely to complement that of Alexis Sanchez should he move to the Emirates, a prospect that would leave Premier League full-backs in fear.
The question will be whether Bruma could adapt to life in the Premier League. Whilst he did impress for Real Sociedad last season, his contribution of two goals and one assist in 32 games was poor and more would be expected of the former Sporting Club player if he were to move to north London. Early signs this season suggest that he has improved on those aspects of his game, but he is playing in the Turkish league which is of lower quality.
His international record is far from convincing, given that his last call-up to the Portugal national squad came in 2013 when he was an unused substitute for two World Cup qualifiers, and at times has struggled to establish himself for his country’s under 21s side. Given his recent form though, those difficulties could be well behind him.
Mauricio Pochettino and Arsene Wenger now face a transfer battle to secure their man should they both opt to move for the winger, who has undoubted skill. Whilst Arsenal have previously shown reluctance to move quickly in the transfer market, this may open the door for smooth operators Tottenham to steal a headstart in negotiations with Galatasaray, who are reluctant to allow their man to depart for anything less than their asking price. Where he ends up remains to be seen, but it could have a big influence on which of the two sides will kick on to become real forces in the challenge for the Premier League title.
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