A year ago
Arsenal have initiated discussions to acquire Joao Cancelo from Manchester City in the upcoming summer transfer window. The Portuguese defender returned to the Etihad Stadium after completing a six-month loan spell with Bayern Munich.
Following a falling-out with manager Pep Guardiola, Cancelo is expected to depart City this summer. Despite a successful four-year tenure in Manchester, uncertainties surround his future. Bayern Munich opted not to exercise their option to purchase the 29-year-old, thus opening the door for Arsenal, Real Madrid, and Barcelona to express interest in signing him.
Having previously secured Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko from City last summer, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta may look to repeat the feat this year. Jesus and Zinchenko significantly elevated the Gunners' performance levels, enabling them to challenge City for the Premier League title. However, there are concerns that City may be reluctant to engage in further business with Arsenal due to the positive impact the previous signings had on the North London club.
According to Sky Sports, Arsenal has engaged in preliminary discussions, exploring the possibility of acquiring Cancelo. Nevertheless, Cancelo has expressed his preference for a move to Spain, with Real Madrid and Barcelona emerging as the frontrunners.
Cancelo's desire to join one of the Spanish giants has been highlighted by German news outlet Kicker, via Besoccer. The potential deal could reach up to €50 million (£43 million). City is hesitant to approve another loan deal for Cancelo, as his contract is set to expire in four years, having recently agreed to a two-year extension on his original six-year contract.
Barcelona's financial constraints necessitate player departures as they prioritize bringing Lionel Messi back to the Nou Camp. Meanwhile, Madrid is keen on strengthening their defensive options but currently focuses on securing a replacement for Karim Benzema.
This situation presents Arsenal with an opportunity to swiftly secure a deal for Cancelo. However, their primary focus lies in reinforcing their midfield, with a significant move to bring in Declan Rice as a priority, according to football.london.
In conclusion, Arsenal has initiated talks to sign Joao Cancelo from Manchester City, but the player's preference lies in a move to Spain, with Real Madrid and Barcelona as potential destinations.
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