Arsenal send scouts to watch Granit Xhaka replacement with summer transfer 'practically inevitable'
According to reports, Arsenal have sent scouts to monitor the potential replacement of Granit Xhaka.
The Gunners are currently five points ahead of the Premier League leaders, leaving fans dreaming of their first domestic title in nearly 20 years.
Only Manchester City stand in their way, with Pep Guardiola's side in second place.
All eyes will be on Etihad when Man City host Arsenal in an all-important title competition.
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But midway through the film, Mikel Arteta is said to have identified Xhaka's long-term replacement in the form of Sporting Lisbon midfielder Manuel Ugarte. Arteta is keen to strengthen his squad this summer and wants to sign a 'complete midfielder', according to Portuguese newspaper O Jogo.
Ugarte at Arsenal?
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Arteta was said to be 'in love' with Ugarte when Arsenal faced the Portuguese giants in the Europa League earlier in the season, according to O Jogo.
The 22-year-old was sent off at the end of the day at the Emirates but the Gunners boss was impressed with his performance.
While the club sent scouts to watch him play against Juventus in Sporting Lisbon's Europa League quarter-final, which they lost 2-1 on aggregate. Ugarte has made 43 appearances in all Sporting competitions this term and is said to have 'conceded' the Gunners team.
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And that interest could turn into an offer, with Ugarte's departure 'virtually inevitable', with the midfielder appearing unwilling to extend his current contract.
Meanwhile, Sporting could be looking to cash in on him as they look to raise funds for new players this summer.
It remains to be seen whether Arsenal are willing to meet the players' €60m (£53m) release clause.
But the Uruguay international is seen as a replacement for Declan Rice, who has become Arenal's priority transfer target this summer. Advertisement
The England midfielder has turned down several contract extensions at West Ham and is keen to move to north London.
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