Arsenal is all set to get a fierce competition in their pursuit of Paris St-Germain star Marco Verratti as Italian giants Inter Milan have reportedly entered the race to secure the signings of the midfielder. Verratti has been linked with a move away from the French outfit in recent weeks after reports of an argument with his boss Unai Emery emerged, following his angry reaction after being substituted in the 59th minute in the goalless stalemate against Marseille on September 23.
The Italy international’s agent’s statements have added fuel to the fire. Donato Di Campli, Verratti’s agent, said that the criticism from the media could force his client to eye other options.
Speaking to RAI Sport, Di Campli said: “I remain stunned when I read certain criticism.The French press ought to be honored and thank their lucky stars if Marco plays in Paris, otherwise, they’d be reporting on friendly games between locals. If they continue like this, he really will leave Paris. It’s not just the media, but others who criticize him and don’t understand football. I speak to other clubs and coaches in other teams who think very differently.”
As a result, several football powerhouses have upped their interest in the playmaker. Apart from Arsenal and Inter, Chelsea and Juventus are also keen to sign the player. Meanwhile, media reports are suggesting that Inter is leading the race to sign the PSG star. The San Siro outfit have struggled to perform well this season despite spending heavily in the summer and Verratti is one of their biggest targets in the upcoming transfer window. Chinese consortium Suning Holdings Group have taken over Inter Milan and they might go all out to sign Verratti in January.
On the other hand, Arsenal will be keen to sort out their issues in the midfield. The Gunners have still not offered a contract extension to Santi Cazorla and the Spain international might leave the Emirates with Serie A champions Juventus highly interested in him. There is no denying the fact that the North London club is doing very well right now but if Cazorla leaves, then Verratti will be an ideal replacement. Granit Xhaka has arrived at the club this season but he is still not looking impressive. With heavyweights like Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Barcelona also keen in Verratti, it will not be easy for the English giants to sign the Italian.