Arsenal transfer news: Gunners join Man City in race for 23-year-old Rodri replacement-BREAKING NEWS- Arsenal has submitted a deal to this Italian midfielder, Manchester city will not get him says Mikel Arteta 😳😳
Arsenal have reportedly joined Manchester City in the pursuit of Torino midfielder Samuele Ricci. The 23-year-old has been impressive in the early stages of the Serie A season, starting all seven of Torino’s league matches. Though yet to register a goal or assist, Ricci is known for his defensive capabilities, offering strong protection for the backline and initiating attacks from deep positions.
With five senior caps for Italy since his debut in June 2022, Ricci has gained international experience. Since making a permanent move from Empoli in 2022, he has made 74 appearances for Torino, scoring three goals.
According to *CaughtOffside*, Arsenal have joined Manchester City in the race to sign Ricci ahead of 2025. The Gunners are closely monitoring the midfielder, who is quickly establishing himself as a top-tier defensive player. Torino are reportedly valuing Ricci at £42 million, though it is believed that neither City nor Arsenal are willing to meet that price, with both clubs valuing him closer to £25 million.
Tottenham Hotspur, under manager Ange Postecoglou, are also said to be interested in the Italian midfielder, adding further competition for his signature.
Manchester City’s interest comes as no surprise, especially after Rodri’s season-ending injury during the match against Arsenal in September. Without Rodri, City have appeared more vulnerable defensively, making a midfield reinforcement a priority for the January transfer window.
As for Arsenal, with Thomas Partey and Jorginho nearing the end of their contracts, the club is seeking long-term solutions in midfield. Ricci could become a key player at the Emirates, while at City, he might only serve as a short-term option until Rodri returns to full fitness.Arsenal and Manchester City have joined the race to sign Torino midfielder Samuele Ricci, with Tottenham Hotspur also showing interest. Ricci, 23, has impressed early in the Serie A season with his defensive capabilities and ability to initiate attacks from deep positions, making him an attractive target for top Premier League clubs. He has earned five caps for Italy and since joining Torino from Empoli in 2022, has made 74 appearances, scoring three goals.
Torino reportedly values Ricci at £42 million, though City, Arsenal, and Spurs are hesitant to meet that price, valuing him closer to £25 million. Arsenal is monitoring Ricci as they seek long-term midfield reinforcements, with Thomas Partey and Jorginho nearing the end of their contracts. Meanwhile, Manchester City’s interest has intensified due to Rodri’s season-ending injury, leaving a gap in their midfield that Ricci could help fill. However, for City, Ricci might only serve as a short-term solution until Rodri’s return. Spurs’ interest adds further competition for the Italian midfielder’s signature.
