International break not only gives us a breathing space from the hectic club-football reporting, but it is also a good time to reflect on the major transfer stories going around.
Anyway, covering transfer stories are always fun, even though most of the time it lacks the factual accuracy.
According to reports from English press, Kelechi Nwakali, the highly rated Nigerian attacking midfielder, has penned a five-year-deal with the Gunners.
Arsenal haven’t officially confirmed the deal, but reports in Nigeria (Nwakali is a Nigerian, and so there is an obvious interest in the Nigerian press) suggest that the deal is as good as done.
Arsene Wenger denied last month that the Gunners had agreed a deal for the youngster, but he revealed that both the clubs were negotiating over a deal.
It is understood that former Arsenal player Nwankwo Kanu, a former Arsenal player and a hero, has been instrumental behind the move.
“Kanu Nwankwo has played for Arsenal, so Arsene Wenger contacted him to ask about Nwakali. Through him, Arsenal were able to sign the player,” a source close to Nwakali told Allnigeriasoccer.com.
“Nwakali has an agent, Stellar Group, but Kanu was brought in because he is close to us, so we connected him with the British agent.
“Arsenal followed him during the World Cup. Manchester City wanted him even before the tournament but told him to train with the Academy team before being offered a contract, so the deal collapsed.”
Turin based newspaper Tuttosport claim that Serie A giants Juventus are looking to sign Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud, who represents a cheaper alternative than their long term target Edinson Cavani.
Juventus are under bit of pressure to sell Paul Pogba in the summer. The Frenchman is expected to leave Juve at the end of the season, and the Bianconeri are looking to reinvest the money to bolster the attacking department.
Cavani and Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema are their primary targets, but should they fail to sign either of them, the club may turn their attention towards Giroud.
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