OPINION
Arsenal will have to seek out other options to strengthen the centre of their midfield, as it has been revealed that long-time target Ever Banega will not be leaving Sevilla this summer, according to Marca.
The Spanish news outlet has reported that Banega absolutely prefers to stay in Spain, and would rather extend his current contract than leave the club.
This is concerning for Arsenal as Gazetta dello Sport journalist Nicolo Schira reported that Banega was on Unai Emery’s wishlist, as the two had previously worked together when Emery was in charge at Valencia and Sevilla.
#Arsenal is really interested in Ever #Banega. Unai #Emery wants him and in the next days he’ll talk with #Siviglia to work on this deal. #transfers #AFC
— Nicolò Schira (@NicoSchira) June 18, 2018
The report from Spain is a major blow for the Gunners, and their quest for a new central midfielder is now more prominent than ever before, especially as Jack Wilshere has also departed the club.
Marca does indicate that Sevilla are still fearful that other potential suitors could make a move for him, as the Argentine does possess a release clause in his contract.
€20million, which roughly converts to £17.6million, will be enough to trigger Banega’s release, which Arsenal would be able to afford, however, Banega himself is keen to stay in Spain.
Emery is desperately thin in the midfield area, and absolutely must look to activate this release clause to test the Argentine’s will.
A higher squad role will be available at Arsenal, and Emery must look to tempt the dynamic playmaker to the Emirates to avoid any potential midfield crisis, that could hinder the teams Champions League hopes.
Testing Banega’s will must be an absolute priority for Arsenal after this revelation, as Arsenal cannot afford to be weak in the midfield this season.