Unai Emery wants to try and lure Arsenal midfielder Matteo Guendouzi to reunite with him at Villarreal, according to reports.
Former Arsenal boss Emery has recently taken up a new role with Villarreal. It’s his first job since being sacked at the Emirates Stadium last November.
And Emery could get back in touch with his former employers straight away to bolster his new squad.
According to Foot Mercato, Emery wants to pursue a bid for Guendouzi. The midfielder has lost his way at Arsenal since Mikel Arteta replaced Emery. In fact, he hasn’t played at all since 20th June – missing Arsenal’s last 11 games of the season – due to a disciplinary issue.
Guendouzi’s struggles this season have painted a different picture to the one that was seen after his first season at the club. Under Emery, the Frenchman appeared to be a top prospect – and his old coach still believes in him.
The report from Foot Mercato claims that Emery has now been in touch with Guendouzi to tell him of his interest in a reunion in Spain.
Villarreal are willing to present an offer to Arsenal to take the player on loan with an option to buy. The 21-year-old is now their top target.
The French source adds that Arteta wants rid of Guendouzi – with the Gunners boss already admitting he has an “uncomfortable situation” on his hands.
Spain appears to be the most likely next destination for Guendouzi. Barcelona and Atletico Madrid have already been linked, but Villarreal could offer him more playing time.
The ‘Yellow Submarine’ finished fifth in La Liga this season. Hence, they can offer Guendouzi Europa League football next season.
Guendouzi top of six-man exit list
Reports earlier in the week suggested that Arsenal have made the sale of Guendouzi a priority. However, he is not the only one being linked with a departure.
According to the Mirror, Arsenal are also looking to sell five other players ahead of the new season. Mesut Ozil, who hasn’t played since lockdown, is also on the hitlist.
But Guendouzi is the player Arsenal are most actively looking to move on.
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