23-year-old to snub Arsenal in favour of Juventus move

Arsenal’s pre-season got off to a horrific start having lost 2-1 to Scottish Premier League side Hibernian – the last thing The Gunners wanted after failing to qualify for Europe last term. 

Mikel Arteta was spared the sack last season in spite of their disappointing campaign, but he will be under a lot of pressure when fans return to the Emirates.

They are in desperate need for new faces, and while a deal in principle has been agreed with Brighton and Hove Albion for defender Ben White, there are many more areas which need reinforcing.

Unfortunately for the North Londoners, one of their key targets Manual Locatelli could be set to reject Arsenal as he prefers a move to Juventus, according to the Mirror.

Locatelli scored two goals for the Azzurri in Euro 2020.

The Italian midfielder caught the eye with his classy performances for Roberto Mancini’s side in Euro 2020.

While Arteta’s side have met Sassuolo’s £34 million asking price for the 23-year-old, it appears the tough tackling midfielder has been allured by the prospect of playing Champions League football for Juventus.

However, Arsenal’s hopes are not completely dead in the water as Juventus need to trim their own squad before they bring in new faces.

It is also believed Massimiliano Allegri’s side want to offer £26 million, but for a two-year loan for the midfielder, with the 36 time Italian champions obliged to sign Locatelli permanently at the end of that spell.