Arsenal target Barella pleased by interest from big clubs

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Cagliari midfielder Nicolo Barella has stated he is pleased to be linked to big clubs amidst reported interest from Arsenal, he told Sky Italia via Metro.

What’s the word?

Unai Emery is on the hunt for January additions for his Arsenal squad and the need for a new midfielder has been increased by the seemingly imminent departure of Aaron Ramsey, with the Gunners withdrawing their contract offer.

The Gunners have been named alongside the likes of Juventus and Liverpool as holding an interest in Cagliari’s 21-year-old midfielder Nicolo Barella, who featured for Italy’s senior squad twice during the international break.

Quoted by Sky Italia via Metro, the young starlet has admitted he is pleased to be linked to ‘big clubs’ but is focusing on the task currently on hand with Cagliari.

What was said?

“I’m not the one who sorts out the transfers. It’s the agents, presidents and clubs who do that. I only think about Cagliari and to stay up in the league. We’ll see about the rest. The interest from big clubs is pleasing and makes me proud. It means I’m doing the right things.”

Could it happen?

Arsenal’s chances of signing a midfielder in January look set to hinge on whether Emery decides to cash-in on Ramsey in the mid-season window or whether he will allow the Wales international to leave at the end of the season for nothing.

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Either way, Barella is not necessarily a direct replacement for the 27-year-old as he is a more defensive-minded player and the links should leave Egyptian international Mohamed Elneny fearing for his future at the club.

Elneny is yet to feature in the Premier League this season as his three appearances have come in the Europa League and EFL Cup.