Date: 21st July 2021 at 1:43pm
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Before the first match of Euro 2020 had kicked off, the vast majority had predicted France, Germany or Belgium were most likely to win the tournament.

Not many people had wagered on eventual champions Italy, who secured their first international trophy since the 2006 World Cup after a penalty shoot-out victory over England at Wembley.

Few had anticipated quite how excellent Roberto Mancini’s side, who extended their unbeaten run to 34 games during the competition, would be.

A number of the Azzurri’s players made a name for themselves, few more so than Sassuolo midfielder Manuel Locatelli, who scored a brace in the second round of group stage matches.

Now, it appears that the midfielder could be on the move having attracted a lot of attention from Europe’s biggest clubs.

It had been reported that Juventus were keen on the midfielder, however reports are now suggesting that Arsenal have already made a first bid of around £34 million for the player.

It’s suggested that Juventus have made an offer of £25 million plus young midfielder Nicola Fagioli.

Speaking to Sky Sports Italia, Fagiolo’s agent Andrea D’Amico stated that the Gunners had already made a bid for Locatelli.

Locatelli came on as a substitute in the final of Euro 2020.

“Juventus would like to sign Locatelli and Arsenal have already offered £34 million,” he said.

It is believed that Locatelli is keen to play Champions League football next season and may therefore prefer a move to Juventus, given that Arsenal will not play in any European competition next term.

Locatelli could be Arsenal’s second signing of what promises to be a big summer of spending.

Mikel Arteta and technical director Edu are reportedly orchestrating a summer spending spree, with the club prioritising a goalkeeper, centre-back, midfielder and striker as they look to build a team around the likes of Kieran Tierney, Thomas Partey and Bukayo Saka.

A full-back had also been on the club’s wishlist, but the signing of Nuno Tavares from Benfica has appeased the need for reinforcements in that particular area.

 
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