In the latest transfer news, Arsenal have reportedly joined Manchester City in the race for Torino midfielder Samuele Ricci.
The 23-year-old has had a stellar start to the Serie A campaign, starting all seven of his side’s league contests in Italian football’s top tier. While he has yet to provide a goal or assist in the league, Ricci is known for his defensive abilities and his knack for starting attacks from deep.
Ricci also has some international experience, having made five appearances for the Italy senior side since his debut in June 2022. Since joining Torino permanently from Empoli in the summer of 2022, Ricci has played in 74 matches for the club, scoring thrice.
According to CaughtOffside, Arsenal have entered the mix for Ricci, alongside reigning champions Manchester City. The report suggests that Arsenal, who are chasing the Premier League title, are monitoring Ricci’s progress closely and see him as a top defensive midfielder.
Torino values Ricci at £42m, but neither City nor Arsenal reportedly value him that highly at this point. In addition to Pep Guardiola and Mikel Arteta, Ange Postecoglou of Tottenham Hotspur is also said to be interested in the midfielder.
Despite Torino’s asking price, it is believed that the Premier League clubs value Ricci at around £25m. City’s interest in Ricci is understandable given the season-ending injury suffered by Rodri during a game against Arsenal in September. The absence of the Euro 2024-winning Spaniard has left a void in City’s midfield, making reinforcements in that position a top priority before the January transfer window.
As for Arsenal, with Thomas Partey and Jorginho nearing the end of their contracts in the summer, the North London club is in need of midfield reinforcements. Ricci could potentially be a long-term starter at the Emirates, while he may only serve as a temporary solution at City until Rodri returns to full fitness.