Arsenal had sent scouts to monitor the progress of Torino striker Andrea Belotti on Monday night. The Italy international netted a brace and missed a penalty in the 2-2 comeback draw against Fiorentina.
Belotti, 23, has managed to match his potential during the ongoing campaign where he has netted 21 times for Torino – including 19 in 22 appearances in the Serie A.
According to Metro, scouts from the north London club were present in Florence on Monday night as they watched Belotti turn the game on his head with a brace.
The Italian who has a €100 million (£86m) release clause, is well known for his one-time finishing, and his qualities were on full display earlier in the week as his composure in front of goal gave his side a valuable away point.
Goals from Riccardo Saponara and Nikola Kalinic had put La Viola ahead by a 2-0 scoreline at half-time. But, it was left for Belotti to have his say as his missed penalty in the 62nd minute was amended via a headed goal in the 65 minute – with the equalizer coming 20 minutes later through a first-time shot from close range.
Torino sporting director Gianluca Petrachi had alleged the Gunners to have failed with a £56m bid for the talented marksman during the winter transfer window before Arsene Wenger rejected the claims.
But, it seems now that the Gunners are indeed interested in the hitman, but a move could be dependent on the future of Alexis Sanchez. An Exclusive from The Star suggests that the Chilean is preparing for a return to Spain this summer regardless of what the future holds for manager Arsene Wenger.
Both Sevilla and Atletico Madrid are said to be keen on the 28-year-old, and the Gunners will probably cash in on Alexis for a good package with his contract due to expire next year.
Meanwhile, the Gunners’ pursuit of Belotti could still be hindered by the player’s release clause – which currently stands at a hefty £86m. Premier League leaders Chelsea have also been monitoring the player’s progress in the Serie A over the past couple of months.
