Steven Nzonzi was long linked with Arsenal, but now Barcelona have entered the race for his signature.
Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde has been tasked with finding a replacement for the departed legend Andres Iniesta. The former Athletic Bilbao manager has a long list of replacements and Sevilla midfielder Steven Nzonzi has been added to it.
The defending La Liga champions are bidding to hijack Arsenal’s deal for their target and are even more willing to buy him now due to void in the centre of the park. Unai Emery, who has already worked with the 29 year old at Sevilla during his tenure, was keen on reuniting with the World Cup winner this time out.
However, Barcelona have other ideas in mind for the former Blackburn and Stoke City man.
Steven Nzonzi is expected to fetch around 20 million pounds for Sevilla with whom he had a commendable few seasons. Although now, there are a few big clubs hovering around to pick him up, Arsenal and Barcelona are the biggest two prospects.
Unai Emery also quoted praise for the 29 year old French. I believe we can grow with the players we have. The objective is to work hard together and with these talented players.
It’s very important for the club, after two years outside the Champions League, to work to be the best team in the Premier League and also in the world.”
Also read: Arsenal keen on signing Barcelona’s Andre Gomes
The France international currently on Sevilla’s books has a few options, but also a two year contract to run down if he chooses to stay with the Andalusians. At Arsenal, he could be part of a big spending spree by Emery and have a return to England where as he mentioned earlier, enjoyed spells with Blackburn Rovers and Stoke City.
Meanwhile at Barcelona, his job will be to replace Iniesta’s playmaking ability which is an honorary and trustworthy task at one of the world’s best clubs. What remains to be seen now is what the future holds for the Frenchman, Arsenal and Barcelona are set to go for a tussle in the transfer window soon!
