According to the latest reports, Arsenal are planning on moving for ex-Real Madrid target, Exequiel Palacios.
The midfielder plies his trade for South American outfit, River Plate and was included in Argentina’s final 23-man squad for the Copa America, due to be held in Brazil this summer.
After making his debut at the age of 16, he has developed into a youth star back in his home country and is being tracked by a number of top European clubs.
The Galacticos were leading the race for his signature last summer and came very close to signing him for £20m last summer. Palacios’ injury halted his move to the Spanish capital and Madrid are no longer interested with Zinedine Zidane at the helm.
This has made Arsenal the clear favourites, as revealed by Argentine radio station, Radio Continental. The Champions League winner had previously agreed on a £20m fee but the Gunners can easily activate the player’s release clause and get him at a cheaper rate – £18m.
Palacios’ agent, Renato Corsi has already stated that his client is leaving River Plate in June and is currently fielding offers from various English and German clubs. The player is well within Arsenal’s transfer budget and could be the unsung replacement for Aaron Ramsey.
However, the Gunners should take caution over the midfielder’s off-field reputation. Palacios has the knack to fall into the media limelight for all the wrong reasons. Arsenal are at a very important stage and cannot waste resources on an ill-disciplined player.
See Also: Top 5 Highest-Paid Arsenal Players
