Arsenal hopes of signing Rugani snuffed out as Italian centre-back closes on Roma transfer – The Sun

ARSENAL appear to have missed the boat on Juventus defender Daniele Rugani who is closing in on a move to Roma, according to reports.

The Gunners failed in a bid to land in the Italian in the final few days of the transfer window and instead opted for David Luiz.

Juve were willing to let Rugani leave for the Emirates on an initial two-year loan deal with the view to a permanent switch.

But Arsenal were not willing to commit to landing him permanently with the Old Lady demanding around £25million for his signature.

The Gunners were considering revisiting the opportunity to sign him in January but will now need to turn their attentions elsewhere.

That is because Roma have reportedly agreed to meet Juventus' asking price, according to reports in Italy. 

Maurizio Sarri does not see him as part of his plans particularly following the arrival of ex-Ajax man Matthijs De Ligt.

Sarri has already admitted that he needs to axe six of his squad before the new season.

One of those names could also include Paulo Dybala who has been linked with a move away from Turin all summer.

Sarri said: "I can talk about Paulo all I like, but the market goes in a certain way and then whatever I say counts for nothing.

"I think he has the right characteristics to play as a false centre forward. But in any case, we have to cut six players from the Champions League list.

"Our situation is difficult, almost embarrassing, because we run the risk of leaving out players of a really high level.

"It’s a situation we have to resolve and it is not just about the decisions made by coach or club."

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