New manager Unai Emery has identified Sevilla midfielder Ever Banega as part of the restructuring of the North London club.
The deal now looks to have been accelerated as Sevilla have officially signed a replacement in the form of Roque Mesa. He has joined them from the Premier League team Swansea City.
Now that Sevilla have signed Mesa, it is seen as a sign that they are willing to let Banega leave. Independent few days back claimed that Mesa a backup plan to Banega if the midfielder’s release clause is activated.
There haven’t been any reports on Arsenal activating the clause just yet, but its likely to happen soon given that Emery has taken it upon himself to personally convince the £17.6million star to join the club. Banega has spent many seasons under Emery so it is understandable as to why the new manager would want to bring the Argentine.
Banega is part of the Argentina squad at the World Cup and he really impressed in their match against Nigeria with his impressive passing being highlighted by a gorgeous assist that he provided for Messi.
The Gunners have already been active in the transfer market with the signings of Stephan Lichtsteiner and Bernd Leno. With more players expected to join the club, Banega will be part of a real overhaul of the squad. After the departures of Santi Cazorla and Jack Wilshere, the Arsenal midfield does require some kind of experience and that is what the Argentine will be able to provide.
Though he may not start every match at Arsenal, he will surely add some quality to the team that will be helpful for the long season ahead.
And at the price that is Banega will be bought at, it presents good value for money in a market that is often found to be hugely inflated. But, it is suggested that Arsenal may not need to offload a few players in order to raise the necessary funds.
Whatever deal is to happen, it will probably only happen after the World Cup. Argentina will next face France in a round of 16 match and fans can expect to see Banega once again have a starring role as he did in the previous game.
