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Arsenal remain ‘interested’ in signing Joao Cancelo

By on June 26, 2023

Joao Cancelo

Arsenal reportedly remain ‘interested’ in signing Manchester City star Joao Cancelo this summer, as per Italian journalist Rudy Galetti.

Following Takehiro Tomiyasu’s injury-plagued campaign last term, the Gunners have seemingly decided to sign a new fullback in this transfer window. Several right-back options have been linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium over the last few months with Cancelo being among them.

However, Jurrien Timber has emerged as the primary target for Arsenal to reinforce their defence and they are edging closer to signing the Dutchman after submitting a new bid worth around £40m. So, it was thought that they may cool down their interest in Cancelo if they sign the Ajax star.

However, now speaking to GiveMeSport, Galetti has said that Arsenal remain ‘interested’ in Cancelo and they will make a move to sign him after securing a deal for Declan Rice. The 24-year-old is the North London club’s priority target to strengthen their midfield and they have already submitted two bids worth up to £90m to sign the Englishman. But West Ham United have rejected both offers as they want £100m to sell their biggest asset.

Cancelo to Arsenal

Galetti said:

“Arsenal are certainly one of the teams interested in him, it’s confirmed. But at the moment the Gunners are fully focused on the deal of Declan Rice, and only after having managed the midfielder issue will they eventually focus on the Portuguese player.”

It has been suggested that after falling out with Pep Guardiola, Cancelo is expected to be sold this summer and the Citizens want a fee of around £35m to let him leave. It seems Arsenal are looking to take advantage of this situation and sign the defender to bolster the backline.

Cancelo is a versatile defender and can play in either fullback position. He is quick, technically sound, excellent going forward, good in defensive contributions and also can finish off his chances.

The Portuguese has already showcased his talent at the highest level over the last few years so he would certainly be a great signing for Arsenal if they manage to secure his signature this summer.

However, if the Gunners sign Timber – who can play as a centre-back as well as a right-back, I think Arsenal don’t need to spend more to sign another right-back having already got Tomiyasu and Ben White in the squad.

So, it remains to be seen whether Arsenal opt to formalise their interest in signing Cancelo if the 29-year-old eventually ends up leaving the Etihad Stadium in this transfer window.