Arsenal eye Barcelona Captain as Arteta's top pick

Arsenal eye Barcelona Captain as Arteta's top pick

Ayoola Kelechi 17:51 - 30.12.2023

Barcelona could be losing one of their captains this summer as Arsenal look to snap up the versatile midfielder believed to be one of Mikel Arteta's favourites

Premier League title contenders Arsenal are reportedly setting its sights on Barcelona captain Sergi Roberto as Mikel Arteta's preferred choice for bolstering the squad.

Sergi Roberto’s Barcelona contract dilemma

The 31-year-old, whose contract with Barcelona expires at the end of the season, has been the subject of speculation regarding his future with the Catalan club.

Barcelona has not initiated contract talks with Roberto and the lack of negotiations opens the door for other clubs to pursue a pre-contract agreement with the versatile player.

After serving the team for two seasons as its third captain since Leo Messi's departure in 2021, Sergi Roberto now leads Barça as its first captain.
After serving the team for two seasons as its third captain since Leo Messi's departure in 2021, Sergi Roberto now leads Barça as its first captain.

Although a future move to Major League Soccer (MLS) has been anticipated, recent reports suggest that Arsenal is keen on securing his services in Europe.

Arsenal size up move for Sergi Roberto

Mikel Arteta, Arsenal's manager, holds a strong admiration for Roberto, valuing his versatility on the field. The Spanish international could serve as a valuable addition to the Premier League side, particularly given his ability to contribute in various positions. The prospect of acquiring Roberto at no transfer fee further enhances the appeal for Arsenal.

Sergi Roberto, Marc ter Stegen, Ronald Araujo, and Frenkie de Jong, in that order, will get the captain's armband for this season.
Sergi Roberto, Marc ter Stegen, Ronald Araujo, and Frenkie de Jong, in that order, will get the captain's armband for this season.

Roberto has expressed a desire to continue his career at Barcelona, but with uncertainties surrounding contract negotiations, a move to England becomes an intriguing option for the seasoned midfielder. Whether Arsenal will proceed to make a formal move for Sergi Roberto remains to be seen, adding an element of anticipation to the unfolding transfer saga.

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