Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is preparing an offer for Benfica midfielder Javi Garcia and will look to hold off interest from Manchester United, The Daily Mail reports. The Premier League champions had been frontrunners for the 24 year old, but Arsenal are looking to nip in and make the signing.
United made an approach on the final days of the transfer window, but were rebuffed by Benfica because the Portuguese side want to keep him until the end of the season. It is expected that the 24 year old will move to England this summer and moves had been made for him to go to Old Trafford. However, Arsenal’s interest is strong and with no agreement in place between Benfica and United, the Gunners can steal in and make an offer.
Wenger has made an enquiry to the Portuguese side about Garcia’s availability and is impressed with the midfield strength of the player tipped to be a future Spanish international. Ferguson has seen Garcia up close in the Champions League and is hopeful of completing a deal before Arsenal get the chance to negotiate. Arsenal are looking to strengthen their midfield after injuries to Jack Wilshere and Abou Diaby and see Garcia as a top player that will reinvigorate their performances.
The Gunners drew 0-0 with Bolton in midweek and Garcia’s compatriot Mikel Arteta wants more from his teammates. Garcia may be interested in a move to Arsenal to link up with Arteta, but if the Gunners can not secure a deal, they will look to Racing Club captain Claudio Yacob. The Argentinian’s contract runs out at the end of the season and Wenger is keen on bringing Yacob to the Emirates Stadium, maybe even alongside Garcia.
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