Arsenal ‘to seal transfer of Joelson Fernandes in next 24 hours’ after Sporting Lisbon accept offer
ARSENAL are reportedly closing in on a deal for teen prodigy Joelson Fernandes.
A Bola claims the Sporting Lisbon winger, 17, could become a Gunner in the next 24 hours with Arsenal apparently ready to meet his £40million release clause.
Arsenal are ready to meet Joelson Fernandes’ release clause[/caption]It’s said Arsenal chiefs are in Lisbon to “close an agreement” between Sporting, Fernandes and his agent Kia Joorabchian.
They are aware of interest from Barcelona and Juventus.
And Mikel Arteta wants his club to strike while the iron is hot.
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With Arsenal meeting Fernandes’ release clause, it means Sporting are unable to prevent a deal from going through and are effectively “accepting” the £40m.
Arsenal’s move is a far cry away from reports at the weekend claiming they were hoping to seal a deal for just £13.6m.
But it seems that figure was nowhere near acceptable for Sporting.
And Arsenal now look set to pay through the nose for a teenager who has made just four senior appearances this season.
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The news may come as a surprise after reports on Monday claimed Arsenal were unwilling to spend just £6m more on seasoned Atletico Madrid midfielder Thomas Partey.
Meanwhile, the Gunners face stiff competition from Leeds for Gent striker Jonathan David.
And it looks like a free transfer for Willian is off with the winger reportedly set to sign a new contract at Chelsea.