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Transfers
International manager impressed with £104m player who Arsenal want to buy this summer
National team boss Roberto Martinez has now been lauding a midfielder who Arsenal are said to be interested in signing this summer.
As part of Mikel Arteta’s transfer plans, Edu has reportedly been asked to find a central midfield who can perhaps replace Thomas Partey.
Partey seems likely to leave Arsenal this summer, even if he is still in the world-class bracket when fully fit and match sharp.
Of course, that’s been an infrequent scenario during the past few years of his time in north London, explaining why Arsenal can no longer afford to rely on Partey.
In terms of a replacement, Arteta and his team are said to still be somewhat undecided on whether they want to sign a number six or an eight.
That will depend on next season’s plan with Declan Rice, the six who is now thriving in a more advanced role.
It seems unlikely that Rice will abandon his new role altogether, meaning it appears most likely that Arsenal will sign a midfielder who can sit in the pivot or do both.
And of all the names linked to the club, Benfica’s 19-year-old Joao Neves is arguably the most exciting.
19-year-old Arsenal target Joao Neves shows ‘big personality’ in first Portugal start
Neves made his full debut for Portugal last night on his sixth appearance for his country, playing 90 minutes against Finland.
And if the midfield orchestrator needed any more commendation then he received it from his manager, Roberto Martinez, after the game.
Martinez was delighted with Neves’ minutes, and praised his personality in particular.
Speaking via , Martinez said: “He showed that he has a very big personality, just like Francisco Conceicao, that’s what I highlight.
“Joao helps his colleagues to be better, he has a lot of technical ability and tactical flexibility.”
Of course, that bravery would be crucial were Neves to come to the Premier League, particularly if he was tasked with improving this Arsenal team.
Manchester United are also being heavily linked with Neves, who reportedly won’t be sold for less than his £104m release clause.
But given his ability and potential, that could be a sum a club is willing to pay this summer, securing a talent who can reach the level of Rice or Rodri at Manchester City.
Although costly, Neves really would be the perfect signing for Arteta this summer, a player who could improve Arsenal in transition no end.
That being said, Arsenal do have alternative option they could explore in the Premier League, one that may damage Tottenham’s transfer plans too.