Arsenal have reportedly been dealt a blow as it looks like Joelson Fernandes is set to sign a new contract with Sporting Lisbon.
As noted by Sport Witness, the Gunners had been strongly linked with the young forward, but they now cite fresh reports from Portuguese papers O Jogo and Record stating that he now looks set to stay where he is instead.
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One possible boost for Arsenal for the future, however, is that Joelson has not been tied down to too big a release clause.
The report explains that Sporting had hoped to include a buy-out clause of €100million in the youngster’s new contract, but that instead it’s only gone up from €45m to €60m.
That surely means Arsenal and other top clubs could look into signing him again at some point in the future without the obstacle of a mammoth price tag.
Mikel Arteta could have done with bringing in some fresh blood for his attack this summer, but having already brought in Willian on a free transfer, perhaps his priority will now be in other areas of the pitch.
For instance, the reliable Duncan Castles has claimed Arsenal seem to be closing in on a deal to sign Lille defender Gabriel Magalhaes…
Understand Lille have agreed to sell Gabriel Magalhães to Arsenal for a fee of €30million.
Brazilian centre back due to take medical tomorrow before completing transfer to the Premier League club.
Gabriel was also targeted by Everton, Manchester United and Napoli. #AFC #BRA https://t.co/CSt29pDPmB— Duncan Castles (@DuncanCastles) August 19, 2020