Lucas Torreira’s Arsenal career all-but over as he closes in on Atletico Madrid loan transfer with option to buy
LUCAS TORREIRA is closing in on a move to Atletico Madrid – all-but ending his Arsenal career.
The Uruguayan midfielder is keen on a switch away from the Emirates, with his agent already in the Spanish capital.
The 24-year-old has had a frustrating time over the past year, with injuries and falling out of Mikel Arteta’s starting side.
He is now in advanced talks over a deal to Atletico, which is set to be completed by the weekend at the latest.
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The Gunners are demanding a £22m fee for the former Sampdoria ace, but are willing to come to an agreement.
Torino had been eyeing a swoop for the midfielder, but were put off by the price and pulled out of talks.
Arsenal want to use the cash to fund a move for Lyon midfielder Houssem Auoar, who is their No1 midfield target.
The 22-year-old wants to come to London, with the French side all-but resigned to losing him.
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The Gunners have been given a deadline of Friday to complete a move, thought to be upwards of £40m.
Arteta had also been looking at signing Thomas Partey from Atletico during this transfer window.
But the Spaniards refused to budge on the 27-year-old’s release clause, which is understood to be around £50m.