Arsenal’s continuing pursuit of Juventus star Arthur Melo could result in a hammer blow being dealt to Manchester United’s own transfer plans. Both the Gunners and United are seeking to boost their squads this month as they battle to claim the final Premier League top four spot.
The rivals also share a similar aim for the window, with the clubs both hoping to sign a new central midfielder.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta desperately requires reinforcements in the middle of the park with Granit Xhaka suspended while Thomas Partey and Mohamed Elneny are away at the Africa Cup of Nations.
The Red Devils meanwhile have lacked quality in defensive midfield for some time and it has been highlighted as a weakness by interim boss Ralf Rangnick.
The Gunners appear to be further ahead in their pursuit of a solution to the midfield problem as they close in on the signing of Arthur.
Juve boss Massimiliano Allegri is open to seeing the Brazilian midfielder depart Turin, with Arthur having been a bit-part player for much of the campaign.
Arsenal's pursuit of Arthur could land hammer blow to Man Utd's transfer plans (Image: Getty Images)
As a result, he is could leave the Allianz Stadium this month, with Arsenal quickly emerging as his likely destination.
The Gunners were thought to have agreed personal terms with the 25-year-old last week, with Calciomercato reporting he is ‘powerfully in their crosshairs’.
But before they can bring him to the Emirates Stadium, it is stated that there is still work to do to find an agreement that ‘satisfies all parties’.
That is where Arsenal are currently facing a stumbling block to completing a deal, with Juventus requiring a replacement before sanctioning Arthur’s exit.
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Both Arsenal and United are looking to sign a new midfielder (Image: Express Sport)
Zakaria is out of contract with Gladbach at the end of the season, which is said to be a ‘welcome profile’ for Juve.
But if Juventus do indeed attempt a move for Zakaria, it could scupper United’s own transfer plans, with the Swiss star having been a top target for Rangnick.
The Gladbach star has developed into one of the best midfielders in the Bundesliga since arriving in 2017, with the Red Devils long-term admirers.
United are taking their time with firming up their interest though and if Juventus did make a move, it would be a hammer blow to Rangnick.