Arsenal are reportedly ready to submit a formal proposal to sign Gremio star Bitello in this transfer window, as per the Brazilian outlet Correio Do Povo.
It has widely been suggested that the Gunners have prioritised bolstering their engine room this summer. They have already agreed on a deal in principle with West Ham United to sign Declan Rice and it appears Mikel Arteta wants to add another midfield option before the start of next season.
Several players have been linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium over the last few weeks with Romeo Lavia being mentioned as a serious target but, Bitello is now emerging as a key option.
It has recently been reported that Arsenal have sent scouts to monitor the 23-year-old’s development closely ahead of a potential move this summer.
Now, according to the report by Correio Do Povo, Arsenal’s representatives have already travelled to Porto Alegre to hold talks with Gremio over a deal to sign the South American.
Bitello to Arsenal
The report further claims that the North London club are prepared to launch an opening proposal to sign the midfielder and they will send the official documents in the coming days. So, it appears Arsenal are seriously considering signing Bitello this summer to strengthen their engine room.
It has been reported that Gremio value their star man at around £9m so the Emirates club could manage to purchase the Brazilian for an affordable price in this transfer window.
It has been suggested that Lavia is Arsenal’s preferred option to reinforce their midfield department but they don’t want to match Southampton’s £45m asking price. So, it seems Arteta’s side have opted to explore cheaper alternatives and have identified Bitello as a serious option.
Following Granit Xhaka’s departure, Arsenal need a new box-to-box midfielder to replace the Switzerland international and Bitello could be a solid acquisition as he can play anywhere across the middle of the park.
The South American is technically sound, can play threading passes between the lines, has the ability to dribble past opposition defenders in tight areas and also works extremely hard without possession. So, he possesses the necessary attributes to blossom in the Premier League.
It is going to be interesting to see whether Arsenal eventually opt to sign Bitello this summer to reinforce their midfield department.
