Gonzalo Higuain is close to signing for Arsenal after Arsene Wenger held talks regarding the Argentine international’s transfer.
A report in the Daily Mirror claims Wenger has already met with the Real Madrid striker’s father Jorge, who also acts as his agent, in Paris about a possible move to the Emirates.
Arsenal are believed ready to splash out vast amounts of cash on some top-class players this summer in a bid to end a barren spell without a major trophy, and Higuain certainly fits the bill.
The 25-year-old has become disenchanted with life at the Santiago Bernabeu after frequently having to battle for a starting spot with Frenchman Karim Benzema, and even though the Gunners will face competition from Juventus they are confident a €22m bid will land him.
Higuain – sent off in Argentina’s 0-0 World Cup qualifying draw with Colombia on Friday – earns around €140,000-a-week in Madrid but his wages would not present a problem to the Gunners, and the player himself intimated last week that he would be open to the possibility of a move to England.
“Arsenal? They would suit me. I’m still young and I have goals [still in me],” he is quoted as saying, whilst his father appeared to confirm talks had taken place.
“Madrid will want to sell. Juventus or Arsenal? I guess he has spoken with them.
“The clubs first have to talk to Madrid in direct negotiation. Gonzalo currently has three years left on his contract,” revealed Jorge.