Arsenal Close to Signing Gremio Midfielder Bitello
Arsenal are reportedly close to signing Gremio midfielder Bitello, as the Gunners look to strengthen their midfield options following the departure of Granit Xhaka. The 23-year-old has been one of Gremio’s standout performers this season, with seven goals and four assists in 33 appearances.
According to Radio Guaiba’s Rafael Pfeiffer, Arsenal have sent a representative to Brazil to make an opening offer for Bitello. Gremio currently own 70 per cent of Bitello’s rights and are demanding a €10 million (£8.5m) transfer fee. The remaining 30 per cent are owned by his former club FC Cascavel, who play in the fourth tier of Brazilian football.
Arsenal are also expected to announce the £40m signing of Ajax defender Jurrien Timber this week, as Mikel Arteta looks to bolster his squad ahead of the new season.
What Do We Know About Bitello?
Bitello is a 23-year-old midfielder who currently plays for Gremio in Brazil. He has been one of Gremio’s standout performers this season, with seven goals and four assists in 33 appearances. He is capable of playing in multiple midfield positions but has excelled in a central role this season.
Bitello has not been capped by Brazil’s national side, but his performances for Gremio have caught the eye of Arsenal scouts. He is now reportedly close to joining the Gunners as they look to strengthen their midfield options following the departure of Granit Xhaka.
What Does This Move Mean for Arsenal?
The signing of Bitello would be a major boost for Arsenal, as they look to build on their impressive performances from last season. The 23-year-old has shown he can be a creative force in midfield, with seven goals and four assists in 33 appearances for Gremio this season.
He would provide competition for the likes of Thomas Partey, Dani Ceballos and Mohamed Elneny in the centre of midfield, and could be the perfect partner for Declan Rice if he completes his move from West Ham.
Bitello’s arrival would also give Mikel Arteta more options in midfield, as he looks to build on Arsenal’s impressive performances from last season. The Gunners are expected to announce the signing of Ajax defender Jurrien Timber this week, as they look to bolster their squad ahead of the new season.