Juventus are leading the race to sign the highly rated Arsenal target Aleksandr Golovin, having already tabled a bid, according to La Gazzetta Dello Sport.
The Italian news outlet claims that Juventus have tabled an offer of around £15million for the Russia international, following his impressive performance in the World Cup opening game.
Golovin, who shined during Russia’s 5-0 destruction of Saudi Arabia, has long since been linked with a number of high-profile moves, including Arsenal, who are stated to be one of a number of sides in touch with Golovin’s agent, Oleg Artemov.
It is said that CSKA Moscow are holding out for a sum closer to their valuation of £22million, but could be tempted with a slightly lower offer.
New Arsenal boss Unai Emery must move fast, as it is reported that the initial contact made by Juventus indicates that Golovin could earn in excess of £2million per year in Turin, which is a tempting offer.
OPINION
Although maybe a little inexperienced for the Premier League, Aleksandr Golovin is exactly the sort of player that Arsenal needs. The forward showed his full capabilities during Russia’s World Cup opener, stunning the Saudi Arabian team, as the Tournament hosts won 5-0. The fact that Serie A champions Juventus are so keen to get the ball rolling signifies the talent level of the 22-year old, so Arsenal must get moving if they are to secure a deal. Golovin is very quick, direct and calm on the ball, as well as being a deadly free-kick specialist, something that is not often seen by a young talent. The £22million asking price in this market is an absolute bargain for one of Europe’s most exciting young prospects, and this sum also does not come with the risk of a ‘flop’ label, should the player not succeed immediately. Golovin is an enigma and would frighten Premier League defenders with his dazzling play, not to mention the player’s he’d be linking up with at the Emirates who could bring the best out of him. With more performances like the game versus Saudi Arabia, the 22-year-old’s price is only likely to go up, as more and more teams begin making enquiries, so Arsenal will have to move fast if they are to land him.