Arsenal are not close to signing Santos striker Marcos Leonardo, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
There were reports in the Spanish media earlier this week that the Gunners had tabled a €20m (£17m) offer for the Brazilian but, speaking to Caught Offside, Romano said:
“Marcos Leonardo will leave Santos in 2024 for sure, there’s no doubt and it’s not even about the club’s recent relegation; they already decided that months ago.”
“There are many links, every week Leonardo is linked with five or six clubs but it’s still at the early stages with agents meeting clubs. There’s nothing concrete or close with Arsenal so far, despite speculation.”
Leonardo has a number of suitors
As Romano mentions, though, it is almost certain that Leonardo will get a transfer in January. Last month, the player spoke out to say that “conversations are being held” with European clubs.
It is believed that, in addition to Arsenal, Manchester United and Roma are keen on signing the 20-year-old but, at this stage, it does appear as if there is no clear favourite to secure the forward’s signature.
Arsenal will have to play smart in the transfer market if they want a striker
Due to Financial Fair Play restrictions, Mikel Arteta’s side are somewhat restricted in what they can do in terms of strengthening their squad. They would probably have to sell players if they want to recruit an elite no.9 such as Brentford’s Ivan Toney or Napoli’s Victor Osimhen.
There is the possibility that a loan with an obligation to buy could be proposed if they wanted to get around FFP, but signing a younger player like Leonardo for a lower fee could also be considered.
