The midfielder was close to joining Arsenal in 2021 but chose a different option.
Arsenal’s appeal in Europe under Mikel Arteta has significantly improved over the past few years. After some early success in the FA Cup and Community Shield, the club faced challenges where several top players turned down offers to move to London.
During this time, Arsenal targeted several high-profile players, including Dusan Vlahovic and Manuel Locatelli from Juventus. Despite their interest, neither player ended up signing, demonstrating the growth in the club’s reputation since then.
Director confirms Locatelli was effectively ‘sold’ to Arsenal
Photo by Daniele Badolato – Juventus FC/Juventus FC via Getty Images
Locatelli became a main target for Arsenal in the summer of 2021 after impressing for Italy in the European Championship. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported that the club believed he would fit well in the Premier League and moved quickly to sign him.
Sporting director Edu Gaspar reached an agreement with Sassuolo’s CEO, Giovanni Carnevali, which made Arteta confident about landing the player. However, Locatelli expressed a strong preference for Juventus, which offered a lower financial deal than Arsenal.
Carnevali later stated that they respected Locatelli’s wishes, even if it meant paying a higher fee, confirming that a deal with Arsenal was nearly completed.
Locatelli reflects on rejecting Arsenal move
Locatelli has thrived in Turin since opting for Juventus, becoming a key part of their midfield and making over 200 appearances. When asked in 2024 if he regretted his choice regarding Arsenal, he rejected the idea and praised Arsenal’s style of play and Arteta’s coaching. As Arsenal now boasts a strong midfield with Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi, both parties seem to have benefited from this past decision.
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