AS Roma Close In On Arsenal Midfielder Lucas Torreira

Roma are the latest side to express interest in the services of Arsenal midfielder Lucas Torreira, reports Italian outlet La Nazione.

The Uruguayan was in fine form on loan at Fiorentina last season, making 35 appearances in all competitions for I Viola.

Torreira’s Arsenal career began incredibly, as his opening months in the famous red and white saw him rack up Player of the Match awards with consummate ease. 

However, that momentum failed to last, with the combative midfielder dropping out of favour once Unai Emery was sacked in favour of Mikel Arteta. 

The 26-year-old failed to impress during his loan spell with Atletico Madrid, which prompted the Gunners to loan him out again to Fiorentina in the hopes of boosting his value. 

Fiorentina had been given an option-to-buy during negotiations, but despite Torreira’s successful loan spell, the Italian side attempted to lowball Arsenal.

Technical director Edu was having absolutely none of it, meaning that as things stand the former Sampdoria man will be returning to London Colney for pre-season training.

Roma, however, have other plans, having expressed interest in the Uruguayan and according to reports in Italy, a deal “is close” for the midfielder.

There certainly appears little future at the club for Torreira.

With Vieira being signed, and links to the likes of Tielemans and the versatile Lisandro Martinez, a farewell to the Emirates appears somewhat inevitable. 

When you also factor in the contract extension handed to Mohamed ElNeny following his end of season contributions, as well as the faith the Gunners hierarchy have in young talents emerging from Hale End such as Charlie Patino, prospects appear grim for the 26-year-old.

Despite the unsuccessful transfer, the failure seems more a product of circumstance as opposed to the talent on offer.

As the Arteta project progressed, Torreira’s limited ball abilities rendered him surplus to requirements.

That said, if a move is to materialise this summer, the Emirates faithful will have fond memories of his short stint at the club.

The fans will remember him for his combative play and always wearing his heart on his sleeve.