Arsenal’s technical director Edu has insisted that Lyon midfielder Lucas Paqueta, who has been linked with both North London clubs this summer, is not a transfer target for the Gunners.
Tottenham have made six signings so far this summer but reports indicate that Antonio Conte wants to add another creative midfielder and a centre-back to his squad before the window closes (Evening Standard).
Paqueta, who scored 11 goals and provided seven assists in 2021/22 (Transfermarkt), is said to be one of the playmakers that the Lilywhites are thought to have their eye on (Football.London).
L’Equipe reported earlier this month that the 24-year-old has expressed a desire to leave Lyon this summer and the French club would be willing to sell him if they receive a suitable offer.
Arsenal have also been heavily linked with a move for the Brazilian, who is said to be valued by Lyon in excess of €50m (£42.5m), according to MediaFootMarseille‘s report last week.
In what comes as a potential boost to Spurs’ pursuit of Paqueta, Edu has now said that the Gunners are not after a player of the Lyon star’s profile this summer.
The Arsenal director told TNT Sports Brazil (as translated by The Express): “I really like Paqueta, I’m big fan since long time.
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“But as of today, the reality is that there’s not even a conversation to sign him. There’s nothing as we’ve many players in that position, that’s it… can’t say more”.
Spurs Web Opinion
It is anybody’s guess who Tottenham’s main target is for the creative playmaker role. Zaniolo seems to be the one Conte and Paratici want and given that he is seemingly valued at a similar price to Paqueta, I would be surprised if Spurs went for the Brazilian over the Roma star.
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