Wenger Meeting Agent In Brazil To Discuss Proposed €36m Striker Deal

As we approach the opening of the summer window clubs will be intensifying their efforts in the transfer market so we’ll bring you all the latest news and gossip. Today, Gooner Mac brings us the latest on Mario Balotelli.

Arsene Wenger is set to meet with the agent of Mario Balotelli over in Brazil to discuss a potential €36m move to the Emirates Stadium this summer, according to reports.

Balotelli has emerged as the most likely target as Wenger looks to bring in a top class forward to offer competition to Olivier Giroud next season and speculation is mounting that a deal is edging closer.

Reports last week suggested that Arsenal’s chief contract-fixer Richard Law has already put together a package for the 23-year-old while it’s also understood that Balotelli’s agent Mino Raiola held talks with AC Milan officials on Friday where it was agreed the striker would be sold if a bid of €36m came in.

It remains to be seen whether we’ll be prepared to meet that asking price, but we certainly have the finances to do it if we really want to sign him, and it looks like Wenger is ready to step up his interest with the Daily Star claiming the boss will hold formal talks with Raiola in Brazil this weekend to try and thrash out a deal.

The newspaper states that the former Manchester City ace wants to return to the Premier League – and London in particular – after a difficult season in Italy where he was racially abused by supporters on several occasions, and Arsenal looks like his most likely destination after Chelsea dropped their interest to focus on Diego Costa.

It’s clear we need to bring in at least one striker this summer and judging by the various reports circulating at present, Balotelli is now our number one target. He isn’t everyone’s cup of tea and he does come with a lot of baggage due to his controversial character, but his ability can not be questioned.

MORE: ARSENAL AGREE TERMS WITH AURIER

On his day he’s an excellent player and his versatility will come in useful as he’s able to play out wide, in the ‘hole’ but most importantly he’s shown he’s capable of leading the line on his own. It’s easy to forget he’s still only 23 so is still maturing, and if anyone is capable of taming the Italian, it’s Arsene, so I think he’d be a great signing for the club.