If Arsenal wants to revive a deal for one of its long-term objectives in January, technical director Edu will be a vital role player.
The club’s technical director Edu and his broad network of contacts in the South American market give Arsenal a little advantage in the future competition to recruit Palmeiras star Danilo.
The midfielder was a target for the Gunners throughout the summer, and according to GOAL Brazil, a £20 million bid was made. Any aspirations of signing him were, however, quickly dashed when Palmeiras made it clear that he was not for sale.
Danilo has long been a favorite of Edu and was first connected to Arsenal in January. With the injuries to Thomas Partey and Mohamed Elneny highlighting the concerning lack of defensively-minded options available to Mikel Arteta if either is unavailable, his versatility as a defensive and central midfielder and his progressive style of play fit the profile of player the club is looking for.
The fact that Palmeiras was a part of the Copa Libertadores semifinals in recent months was one of the key reasons they didn’t want to lose the 21-year-old. Additionally, it was challenging for them to sign a replacement because the Brazilian transfer window closed sooner.
Although attempts to sign him this summer finally failed, it’s possible that a new agreement will be reached in January, according to football.london. Fabrizio Romano, an Italian transfer specialist, also made a suggestion to this effect, saying that even after acquiring Marquinhos from Sao Paulo, Arsenal will continue to “watch” the Brazilian market.
Wolves also sought Marquinhos, but Arsenal moved more quickly because of Edu’s connection to Sao Paulo, according to Romano. Arsenal are certain that he is a top prospect for the now and the future, and they will undoubtedly continue to monitor the Brazilian market because Edu has excellent connections there.
Danilo is regarded as one of Brazil’s most gifted young midfielders and a crucial member of his team, therefore he won’t be cheap. Although Palmeiras may unwillingly alter their stance going ahead given the likelihood that interest will only grow, reports indicate that he has an £86 million release clause in his contract.
