Arsenal have listened to the recent comments from Sassuolo CEO Giovanni Carnevali and are now ready to make an approach for striker Gianluca Scamacca, according to a report.
Scamacca is on Arsenal’s list of targets as they look to replace Alexandre Lacazette, who will leave on a free transfer this summer. Gunners technical director Edu is also looking at Gabriel Jesus of Manchester City and Everton star Richarlison.
But it seems 23-year-old Scamacca has now become their priority.
On Monday, Carnevali responded to rumours of Arsenal interest by saying: “There’s nothing concrete yet for Scamacca, just some contacts with some clubs.
“Of course, after playing with the national team the interest is now growing.”
Scamacca is now part of the Italy team after registering 16 goals in 38 matches for Sassuolo during the most recent campaign.
The attacker has won five caps for his country so far, with the latest one coming against Germany on Saturday. However, Scamacca is yet to find the net for Roberto Mancini’s side.
Arsenal were clearly listening to Carnevali’s comments, as 90Min claim they are ready to make an official proposal for Scamacca.
Arsenal ready to swoop for Gianluca Scamacca
Their report claims Edu has done a significant amount of homework on the star. This includes sending scouts to watch him on several occasions, who have all come back with glowing reports.
Arsenal are ready to act on their interest by opening direct talks with Sassuolo over Scamacca’s potential signing. However, 90Min don’t reveal exactly when this will take place.
They do provide some insight into how Sassuolo feel about a potential exit though.
The Italian club are reportedly willing to cash in on Scamacca this summer. This is because they know big teams are after him. It will be hard to keep the goalscorer around when he knows he can play at a higher level.
Due to Scamacca’s long-term contract, which runs until 2026, Sassuolo can command a decent fee. They will apparently ask for £35million this summer.
This is a substantial amount, but not a huge sum in the current market. After all, Richarlison would cost around £50m if joining Arsenal from Everton.
If Arsenal can land Scamacca for £35m, then they should definitely attempt to sign him. He is a proven striker with experience in a top-five league, where he has excelled.
There may be slightly better options out there with Premier League experience too. But they will cost far more than Scamacca, and the transfer saving could help Mikel Arteta improve other areas of the squad.
Meanwhile, Leicester midfielder Youri Tielemans has made an admission about his future amid rumours of an Arsenal switch.