Arsenal likely to lure Danilo to Emirates in winter transfer window

Arsenal are confident of being able to tie up a deal for Danilo next year.

According to South American football expert Tim Vickery, Arsenal are ‘more likely’ to lure Danilo to the Emirates Stadium in January after Palmeiras failed to win the Copa Libertadores.

The North London club may have spent close to £120million during the summer transfer window, but boss Mikel Arteta will be handed another opportunity to freshen up his squad at the turn of the year.

It is understood that the Gunners have stepped up their pursuit of Danilo by sending scouts to watch him in action against Fortaleza.

The Gunners are long-term admirers of the defensive midfielder and even lodged a £20million bid days before the September 1 deadline, only for him to remain with Palmeiras.

It is understood that the Brazilian giants are not willing to offload Danilo unless the release clause of £86million written into his contract.

Transfer insider Dean Jones has previously told GIVEMESPORT that Arsenal are confident of being able to tie up a deal for Danilo next year and they will maintain their interest.

Vickery admits Arsenal stand a better chance of tempting Palmeiras into selling Danilo during the winter window, having been frustrated in their efforts to strike a deal in August.

The journalist feels the target’s current employers could be open to holding discussions after failing to bag a place in the Club World Cup.

Vickery told GIVEMESPORT: “It is more likely because they won the Copa Libertadores – South America’s Champions League – in the last two years, but they went out in the semi-finals this year.

“Had they won it, they would have had the Club World Cup in February, I think it is, and they wouldn’t want to sell because that’s their Holy Grail. But now they’re not in it, I think a sale is perhaps more likely.”

Danilo has also featured more than 130 appearances for Palmeiras and clinched silverware on numerous occasions.

Danilo has an outside chance of him heading to the World Cup later this month and good performances in Qatar will only enhance his reputation.

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