The full-back is “expected to leave” this summer, according to transfer insider Dean Jones, so Arsenal “may well look to strike a deal” for Joao Cancelo of Manchester City later in the transfer window.
What recent transfer news is there regarding Arsenal?
Arsenal reportedly wants to sign two new right-backs this summer after already signing Jurrien Timber from Ajax for an initial fee of £34.3 million. Timber was brought in to play on the right side of the back four.
Ivan Fresneda, whose team Real Valladolid was relegated from La Liga last season, has a release clause of €20 million (£17 million), making him another target for the Gunners in that area of the pitch.
A move for Cancelo to the Emirates Stadium has also been suggested, and Jones has just released an update indicating that the Man City defender will be available.
The transfer insider said in an interview with GiveMeSport: “The full-back situation is interesting because Cancelo is still anticipated to leave and there has also been all the ambiguity surrounding Kyle Walker.
Later adding: “But what we also know is that Guardiola has departed from the framework in which Cancelo once flourished, and more than that, appears content with the notion he departs.
The main concern is: Where will he go? If something is going to happen soon, it’s probably going to be cheap enough or on loan because Barcelona are primed for it. Although there has been talk about Arsenal, things may not remain as they are right now.
According to my information, if Cancelo is still available later in the transfer window, Arsenal may well consider making a move. Although it hasn’t been completely ignored, it isn’t the top priority. More of an extravagance.
Does Joao Cancelo intend to join Arsenal?
The Portuguese international is not currently a top target for the Arsenal, but the news that Barca has withdrawn from the race to sign him may have given them an advantage in their pursuit of him.
There aren’t many other clubs linked with moves for the full-back, which suggests a move to Arsenal may actually be a possibility. He would be a great addition to Mikel Arteta’s team.
Joao Cancelo of Bayern Munich responds. Hailed as “incredible” by the media, the £250,000-per-week defender has experience in the Champions League, having been ranked as the third-best performer in the league by WhoScored up until April 25 during the 2021–22 season.
Given that Timber has primarily played as a center-back for Arsenal throughout his career, Arteta might be eager to bring in a new right-back who can give the team more attacking flair.
With Cancelo ranking in the 99th percentile for assists per 90 in the previous year, when compared to his positional peers, it is encouraging to hear that Arsenal is still interested in signing him this summer.
