Sampdoria midfielder Lucas Torreira is expected to join Arsenal this summer and has treated his new supporters to a series of impressive performances at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
The 22-year-old is a combative player who nullifies the opposition and is adept at turning over possession. He’s comfortable in possession and is a good reader of the game.
Torreira is still only young and has great potential, and Arsenal fans will be excited at what they’ve seen from him in Russia.
World Cup form helping Uruguay go deep at the World Cup
The defensive-midfielder has made four appearances at the World Cup and has won all four games, conceding just one goal. He was given just three minutes of playing time in Uruguay’s opening group game against Egypt and 31 minutes in the second tournament outing against Saudi Arabia but has since played every minute of the two games that followed.
As Uruguay sealed top spot in Group A with a 3-0 win over host nation Russia on June 25, Torreira put in one of his best performances in the tournament. The 22-year-old, who operated as a shield in front of the defence and a pivot for the midfield, made more touches (77) than any of his teammates and boasted a 93% pass completion ratio.
Torreira won two aerial duels, made three interceptions against Russia and drew three fouls from his opponents. His fine work in midfield helped limit the hosts to just one shot on target in 90 minutes and the best was yet to come in the last-16. The midfielder shone against Portugal in the knockout round and could be a great addition for the Gunners.
What can Arsenal fans expect from Torreira?
Torreira joined Sampdoria from Pescara in 2015 and was already getting first-team football with his former club at the time of his arrival. He was a regular for his new club immediately after signing for Sampdoria too.
At the age of 22, Torreira has made over 100 appearances in all competitions and his becoming one of the better young defensive midfielders in Europe. His performances at the World Cup can attest to his potential, so it’s little surprise why Arsenal are so keen on his signature.
In the Serie A last season, Torreira made over 100 tackles and more than 70 interceptions, while averaging 60 passes-per-game (87% completion ratio), creating 36 chances and making 35 successful dribbles. He has all the qualities Arsenal would want in a midfielder and will greatly improve the squad ahead of next season.
