Arsenal in talks over move for Brazilian midfielder

Arsenal have only completed one signing so far this summer, despite being linked with a number of players. 

Kai Havertz – a £65 million signing from rivals Chelsea – is the only new arrival at The Emirates so far, although deals for West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice and Ajax defender Jurrien Timber are both believed to be close to completion.

Now, it appears that the Gunners are in talks over another potential signing.

As per 90min, Arsenal are in discussions with Brazilian side Gremio over a potential move for Bitello.

The 23-year-old has reportedly become a target for the North London outfit due to sporting director Edu, who has used his contacts in his homeland to arrange talks with Gremio.

Bitello is a versatile midfielder capable of playing in a number of roles including on the right wing, as a defensive midfielder and in a more advanced role.

Bitello is said to be a target for Arsenal

The Brazilian joined Gremio’s youth system back in 2018 and has gradually established himself in the first team setup.

The midfielder has made 84 appearances for his current side across all competitions, scoring 16 goals and providing seven assists.

It is claimed that Arsenal sent representatives to South American last week to watch Bitello in Gremio’s match against Bahia.

The two sides played out a 1-1 draw last week, before the second leg of their cup tie resulted in the same scoreline, with Gremio winning 5-4 on penalties.

So far this season, Bitello has scored seven goals and provided four assists in 34 matches across all competitions.

Arsenal are said to believe that a deal for Bitello could prove similar to the signing of Gabriel Martinelli from Ituano back in 2018, with the player currently going under the radar in South American but the Gunners confident that he could impress in the Premier League.

Gremio would reportedly accept an offer of £8.5 million with sell-on percentage clauses included for Bitello.