EXCLUSIVE: Arsenal boss Arteta makes Vieira sale stance clear – FootballTransfers

Steve Kay

Updated: 16 Jul 2024 09:21 BST 3 min read Exclusive

© IMAGO Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is keen on retaining Fabio Vieira this summer, FootballTransfers understands.

This comes amid transfer speculation surrounding the 24-year-old’s future due to his having failed to properly break into the Gunners’ side.

Article continues under the videoThe young midfielder was seen as Portuguese football’s next big thing, but since arriving at the Emirates in 2022, Vieira has found it hard to adapt to the demands of the Premier League.

Nevertheless, sources inform us that Arsenal manager Arteta believes that Vieira’s best is yet to come and that he wants to keep the midfielder at the club this summer.

In November 2023, the former Porto star required groin surgery and was sidelined until the spring.

READ MORE: Exclusive – Arsenal initiate Merino talks as Arteta eyes €25m deal

© IMAGO – Fabio VieiraAt the time, Arteta said of Vieira: “I’m really happy with him but sad at the same time because it’s been a tough period for him, especially with the last injury, because he had some momentum.”

“He had put some performances together before he got injured. That broke up his rhythm again like last season, but he is an enormous talent and we’re going to get the best out of him.”

Arteta’s admiration for Vieira stems from the player’s technical prowess, versatility, and ability to impact games in various midfield roles. Arteta has emphasised that his creative skills and vision align perfectly with Arsenal’s attacking philosophy, making him an important part of the squad.

Vieira’s first season at Arsenal saw him make 33 appearances across all competitions, contributing two goals and six assists. While these numbers may not immediately stand out, Vieira’s underlying qualities and trust from the manager mean that he could yet have an important part to play at the Emirates.

Arsenal fans can expect to see more of his creative influence on the pitch, driven by the seemingly unwavering support of the manager.

READ MORE: Exclusive – Arsenal eye Espanyol goalkeeper as Ramsdale replacement

Palace want to keep Eze

Regarding Arsenal’s interest in Crystal Palace midfielder Eberechi Eze, we hear that the player is keen on joining north London rivals Tottenham.

We previously revealed that Arsenal had made some tentative contact with the player’s camp. However, Eze is keen on regular minutes and he has doubts whether he would play frequently in Arteta’s side.

Crystal Palace, meanwhile, are preparing to make a strong effort to convince the attacker to stay at the club when he returns from the Euros.