Arsenal could be getting ever so close to making their first move of the upcoming January transfer window. As per reports from Spain (via Football 365), the Gunners are edging closer to signing Barcelona youngster Arnau Pradas as Mikel Arteta and the hierarchy grow in confidence regarding the player’s decision.
Pradas’ situation with Barca currently means that his family is negotiating new contracts with the club. However, the camp also remains open to exploring options for Arnau Pradas to play abroad, with Arsenal emerging as top contenders. The reports add that Arteta has made major breakthroughs in convincing the player and his family to move to London.
The report also adds that Pradas’ family are impressed with the economic as well as sporting aspects of the Gunners’ offer and could be tempted to make the switch. Aged just 18 currently, the left winger has nearly his entire career ahead of him and could become a big asset for the north Londoners should he decide to move.
How will Arsenal integrate Arnau Pradas in the team?
The Gunners are currently short on wingers as compared to the sort of depth Mikel Arteta would want to challenge for silverware. Gabriel Martinelli is the only pure left winger at the club, with Leandro Trossard being more of a flexible forward who can play on the wing as a secondary position.
Owing to this, they have been in the market for a while looking for a suitable player to fill the gaps. While Arteta is keen to ensure Martinelli gets challenged for his position, the Spaniard is keen to also ensure squad harmony is not affected by any incomings.
Pradas is still in the very early stages of his career and has yet to even come close to being considered by the first team. He has made nine appearances for Barcelona U19, scoring three goals and providing one assist. Pradas has also made two appearances for FC Barcelona Atletic.
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Whether or not him and his family decide to move to London remains to be seen.
