Arsenal are targeting a summer move for Sporting Lisbon midfielder Pedro Goncalves, according to O Jogo (page 9).
The 24-year-old had a tremendous 2022/23 season with the Primeira Liga outfit, bagging 20 goals and 15 assists in 51 games.
Two of those goal contributions came against Arsenal in the Europa League last 16 as Sporting won on penalties.
His wondergoal from the half way line at the Emirates Stadium paved the way for the Gunners’ exit from the competition.
It is now reported by O Jogo that a creative midfielder is a target for Arsenal. Mikel Arteta is an admirer of the Portuguese.
Goncalves, who is also on the radar of Aston Villa and Newcastle United, has a €80 million (£69m) release clause in his contract.
Goncalves would be a good acquisition
The Portuguese has the ability to play in multiple roles. He has had equal success from the right wing, left wing and in the number eight position. Hence, he would be a good acquisition for the Gunners this summer.
At the moment, Arsenal are focused on pursuing a deal for West Ham United’s Declan Rice, but the England international is a defensive midfielder by trade. He could be seen as a replacement for Thomas Partey.
In our opinion, Goncalves would fit in perfectly as Granit Xhaka’s successor. He completed 81 per cent of his passes in the recent campaign while winning nearly two tackles and 4.4 duels per appearance.
Goncalves may need to improve on his overall distribution, but could make up for it with his regular goal contributions. His playing style could be compared to Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes.
The 24-year-old has been Sporting’s main creative force since Fernandes’ exit. He could now be tempted to move to the Premier League. Arsenal should look to negotiate a lesser fee up front with performance add-ons.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
