Arsenal are ‘more likely’ to lure brazilian Danilo to the Emirates Stadium in January after Palmeiras failed to win the Copa Libertadores, according to South American football expert Tim Vickery.
The Gunners may have spent close to £120million during the summer transfer window, but boss Mikel Arteta will be handed another opportunity to freshen up his squad at the turn of the year.
What’s the latest news involving brazilian Danilo?
It is understood that Arsenal have stepped up their pursuit of Danilo by sending scouts to watch him in action against Fortaleza.
The Gunners are long-term admirers of the brazilian defensive midfielder and even lodged a £20million bid days before the September 1 deadline, only for him to remain with Palmeiras.
It is understood that the Brazilian giants are not willing to offload Danilo unless the release clause written into his contract, which is worth £86million, is met.
Arsenal have not been the 21-year-old’s only suitors in recent months as AC Milan were also keeping tabs on his situation while the summer transfer window was open for business and French side Marseille have been monitoring his progress as well.
Transfer insider Dean Jones has previously told GIVEMESPORT that Arsenal are confident of being able to tie up a deal for Danilo next year and they will maintain their interest.
Vickery believes Arsenal stand a better chance of tempting Palmeiras into selling Danilo during the winter window, having been frustrated in their efforts to strike a deal in August.
The journalist feels the target’s current employers could be open to holding discussions after failing to bag a place in the Club World Cup.
Vickery told GIVEMESPORT: “It is more likely because they won the Copa Libertadores – South America’s Champions League – in the last two years, but they went out in the semi-finals this year.
“Had they won it, they would have had the Club World Cup in February, I think it is, and they wouldn’t want to sell because that’s their Holy Grail. But now they’re not in it, I think a sale is perhaps more likely.”
