Arsenal are battling it out with Tottenham for a place in the Champions League next season. But now it seem that the rivals are also set to go head-to-head in the summer transfer window.
According to Spanish news outlet Marca, Arsenal will face off against Tottenham, to sign Racing star Carlos Alcaraz ahead of the summer transfer window. The 19-year-old has impressed has in Argentina, and has attracted a host of European clubs.
The Gunners will be in desperate need of a midfielder in the summer transfer window. Beating Spurs to his signature will feel bitter-sweet regardless of what happens in the race for a top-four finish.
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Both Arsenal and Spurs will hope to finish in fourth place at the end of the season, but it is the Gunners who are currently in the driving seat. Mikel Arteta’s side currently sits one point ahead of Antonio Conte’s Tottenham with two games remaining.
Whoever finishes in the dream fourth sport will achieve Champions League football next season. And more importantly, it could give the fourth-place team an advantage in the summer transfer window as they can offer a place in Europe's elite competition.
This could prove key in signing Alcaraez who has also attracted interest from Atletico Madrid, Sevilla, Juventus, Inter Milan, AC Milan, PSV Eindhoven, and Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Alcaraz is primarily a central midfielder in trade, but he has proven to be reliable when used in other positions in midfield. The youngster has even played some games as a right-winger showcasing the immense adaptability that he possesses at such a young age.
The Argentinian is contracted until 2026 but could be available for just £16million despite having a release clause worth £20.5million. The 19-year-old has been dubbed the next Lautaro Martinez even though he plays in a different position because he is set to attract a significant fee, just like his fellow Argentine who also played for Racing.
This transfer saga will certainly be one to watch in the summer. The Gunners will be hoping to beat Tottenham to a place in the top four, alongside the Argentine’s signature.
