Arsenal to sacrifice €40m acquisition in bold Eze move
Bundesliga outfit VFB Stuttgart are showing serious interest in Arsenal midfielder Fabio Vieira (h/t The Athletic).
Stuttgart, who finished ninth in the German top flight last season, are working on strengthening their squad before the new campaign begins.
The club have reportedly made an approach to Arsenal about Vieira’s availability, with their interest centred around a permanent deal rather than a loan.
The Portuguese midfielder, who joined the Gunners in 2022, spent last season back on loan at his former club, Porto.
Talks between Arsenal and Stuttgart are ongoing, but no agreement has been reached. Arsenal are expected to seek a fee that reflects the player’s value.
Arsenal open to sale as they eye reinforcements
Vieira cost Arsenal up to €40 million when he arrived two summers ago.
He has entered the final two years of his current contract at the Emirates Stadium, and his limited impact in the Premier League could prompt Arsenal to cash in.
He played 22 matches in the English top flight during his first season but only started three of them. He made just two league starts during the following campaign.
The attacking midfielder was loaned back to Porto last season, and he was a regular starter. Porto ended the season in third place behind Sporting CP and Benfica.
Vieira made his mark during the loan spell, bagging five goals and six assists in all competitions. He reminded people of the creative talent he showed as a youngster.
He previously came through the youth system at Porto and has represented Portugal at Under-21 level.
Arsenal are interested in signing Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze this summer. Funds from Vieira’s sale could support their bid.
The Gunners are hoping to reshape their squad ahead of the new season, and moving on Vieira would help raise money for reinforcements.
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