Arsenal could still secure the signing of Celta Vigo forward Nolito despite the player’s preference to sign for Barcelona.
The 29-year-old attacker is understood to favour a switch to the Nou Camp over the Emirates Stadium, and as such, is ignoring speculation linking him with a move to north London according to Sport [via Goal].
The attacker has been one of the stars of the first half of the Liga BBVA season, scoring eight goals and contributing five assists in 15 league showings to date, helping his side move up to fifth in the top flight, and in contention for an unlikely European place.
However, the forward’s showings have attracted interest from both Barca and Arsenal, with the former considering the player as a legitimate backup option to any of the first-choice front three of Lionel Messi, Neymar and Luis Suarez, and the Gunners eyeing the forward as versatile cover for Theo Walcott and Olivier Giroud as they push for a first title triumph in a decade.
While Nolito clearly prefers a switch to Barca, Goal note that Arsenal could still get their man.
SEE MORE:
Ruud Gullit blasts Manchester United flop as ‘biggest waste of money this season’
Liverpool player CONFIRMS he’s set for Anfield exit in January
Ex-Premier League defender found dead at 34
With the player’s release clause set at €18 million [Goal], Barcelona may be priced out of a move, particularly for a player who, at 29, will have little resale value. With the reigning European champions baulking at the asking price, the door could be opened for the Gunners to swoop in and get their man.