Arsenal have not completely given up on signing Philippe Coutinho.
Mikel Arteta wants an expert playmaker in his squad and has so far failed to bring any.
Dani Ceballos joined Arsenal only on another year-long loan. While he plays a major part in the team’s buildup, Arteta might just demand more quality in the long run. A deal for Lyon’s Houssem Auoar will be difficult to pull of in the current financial market.
Arsenal technical director, Edu is in contact with Lyon chief and his compatriot, Juninho. A first bid of cash plus Matteo Guendouzi have already been turned down. Now, the Gunners are plotting a second offer but are not fully confident.
That is why a deal for Coutinho is still on their minds. Spanish news outlet, Sport claims Arsenal are still gunning for his signature on a loan deal. Of course, Coutinho would be far too expensive to acquire on a permanent deal.
Barcelona signed him for £140m and will be looking at at least half that fee if they agree to let him go. Ronald Koeman has handed the Brazilian a fresh start at Camp Nou and seems to be willing to include him in future plans. But Barca’s position is also dire right now with plenty of exit already sanctioned.
Coutinho might just leave to allow Koeman to sign new faces. Arsenal would definitely be in the driving seat for that deal, seeing how other clubs have dropped out of the race.
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