Mikel Arteta is interested in Arsenal pursuing a transfer for Raphael Guerreiro. But the free agent can imagine playing elsewhere in 2023/24 after leaving Borussia Dortmund.
That is according to Dean Jones, who reports that Arteta is studying Guerreiro as a possible replacement for Kieran Tierney at Arsenal. The Scotland international now has an uncertain future at Emirates Stadium as the Gunners coach does not feel he fits the criteria he wants.
Arteta wants a very specific left-back to compete with Oleksandr Zinchenko and be able to move up into Arsenal’s midfield. His desired profile has made identifying potential targets a challenge for the Gunners’ scouts. But Guerreiro is one name who could suit Arteta’s plans.
Guerreiro’s free transfer interests Arteta and Arsenal
Guerreiro has emerged as one of the Bundesliga’s most creative left-sided players in recent seasons. He is also now set to become a free agent on July 1 after confirming his departure from Borussia Dortmund. The 29-year-old will not sign a new deal at the Westfalenstadion.
Arsenal have not significantly advanced their interest in Guerreiro’s transfer. But he would fit the role that Arteta believes is so important for how he wants the Gunners to now play. The Spaniard is striving to add another option at left-back who can also occupy the half-spaces.
Guerreiro can see himself playing elsewhere next term
But while Guerreiro’s transfer interests Arteta and Arsenal now that he will leave Borussia Dortmund, the Gunners will face one major problem. Sky Germany also now reports that the Portugal international could imagine signing for Bayern Munich over the summer window.
Bayern Munich have agreed between head coach Thomas Tuchel and club chief Karl-Heinz Rummenigge to target Guerreiro, as well. The pair would like to see the 63-cap maestro at the Allianz Arena next term. While Guerreiro has also told Der FCB he can imagine a move.
Guerreiro and Bayern Munich have held initial talks about his potential transfer. But they do not currently have an agreement with the 29-year-old demanding a long-term contract. He turned down a two-year extension with the option for a third with Borussia Dortmund, too.
So, if Arteta wants Arsenal to strike a free transfer for Guerreiro, Gunners sporting director Edu might have to move fast to table a long-term contract to beat Bayern Munich to a deal. Guerreiro has interest from both clubs after he bagged 14 assists and six goals this season.
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