Arsenal’s Exciting Swap Deal Depends On Liverpool Signing Playmaker, Claim Italian Reports

Liverpool want Shaqiri, and Juventus want Podolski…

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A January transfer merry-go-round could be sparked by Liverpool signing Xherdan Shaqiri, claims Italian publication Tutto Mercato.

If the Reds acquire the Bayern Munich ace, who is unhappy at a lack of playing time in Germany, Juventus (who are also interested in his services) could directly move for Arsenal star Lukas Podolski instead – with the German possibly available for as little as £5m.

According to the report, Arsenal’s chances of accepting the offer will be increased if the Italians are willing to throw in Sebastian Giovinco as part of the deal.

Arsene Wenger is a well publicised admirer of the pint-sized Italian international, and could agree to the swap deal as a result.

Liverpool wanted Shaqiri in the summer, but Pep Guardiola’s Bundesliga champions refused to sell. Despite his enormous talent, Shaqiri’s only made three top flight starts this term, and none in the Champions League.

If Juventus pip Liverpool to Shaqiri’s signature though, they’ll have no need to try and sign Podolski, who is similarly peeved at a lack of consistent playing time.