German newspaper Bild are reporting that 26-year-old Bayern Munich midfielder Luiz Gustavo is for sale and have named Arsenal and Chelsea as some of the front-runners.
The Brazil midfielder played 22 times for Bayern in their successful Bundesliga campaign and appeared 10 times in the Champions League but is surplus to requirements for Pep Guardiola.
Three clubs interested
Bild believe because Pep needs to cut down the side of his squad and with Gustavo’s contract running out in 2015 a move to either Wolfsburg, Arsenal or Chelsea is likely.
Wolfsburg manager Dieter Hecking said:
“We have positioned ourselves.
“There are signs that Gustavo must leave Bavaria.
“We know we are not the only interested party, but if it works out it would be wonderful.”
Anything can happen for the £15-million man
The £15-million rated man has also discussed that his future may lie away from the Alliaz Arena by dropping a hint that ‘anything can happen’.
Gustavo said:
“I am very happy at Bayern but anything can happen before August 31st.”
This article by Bild follows a report by the Daily Mirror that Gustavo was on Arsene Wenger’s summer transfer list.
It seems to be a conclusive link with the former Hoffenheim player and his versatility to play as a defensive midfielder and as a centre back will appeal to Wenger.
Frustrating summer window
Arsenal fans have been left increasingly frustrated in this summers transfer window as numerous targets have joined rival clubs and you wouldn’t put it past Gustavo joining Chelsea just to add to the current disappointment.
However, with the World Cup just around the corner, the midfielder will want first team football and might be more likely to get that at Arsenal.
Aaron Ramsey did an impressive job in the defensive midfield role last season but Gustavo would bring more class and bite to the position. With the Gunners in the Champions League as well it would appear to be the most attractive offer.
Hopefully for Arsenal fans the reports in Germany are accurate and Gustavo is likely to move, and a transfer to North London could help restore the faith for some Gunners fans.
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